The
Woodstock
I NDEPENDENT
Dec. 16-22, 2020
Published every Wednesday | Est. 1987 | Serving Woodstock, Wonder Lake and Bull Valley, Ill. | www.thewoodstockindependent.com | $1.50
High interest = low interest Competitive market will cut $9 million from D-200’s debt solution By Larry Lough
LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Refunding of construction debt bonds this fall will cost Woodstock School District 200 – and its taxpayers – $9 million less than expected. When bonds were sold last week for the refunding, interest rates were lower
A&E
Annual ‘Nutcracker’ adapts, but show goes on (virtually)
MARKETPLACE
PAGE 11
than projected, reported Risa Hanson, chief financial officer for the district. The sale in a competitive market caused by the nation’s economic downturn attracted seven bidders for taxable bonds and nine for the taxexempt bonds. “This is really great news,” Hanson told the Board of Education during its
meeting Dec. 8. The sale is part of the district’s plan to pay off $160 million in construction bonds dating back to 2006, when a population boom led D-200 to build three new schools for anticipated enrollment growth that never came after the housing recession hit in 2007. See BONDS, Page 2
2020 YEARBOOK
Kishwaukee becomes third new brewery in Woodstock
PAGE 13
COMMUNITY
Part 1: Pandemic hides true nature of domestic violence
PAGE 25
INDEX Obituaries
4
Opinion
6
Schools
9
A&E
11
Marketplace 13 Community
25
Calendar
32
Puzzles
34
Public Notices 35 Classified
36
Sports
38
The Woodstock Independent
671 E. Calhoun St., Woodstock, IL 60098 Phone: 815-338-8040 Fax: 815-338-8177 Thewoodstock independent.com
INDEPENDENT FILE PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
“Groundhog Day” stars Bill Murray (right) and Stephen Tobolowsky walk along Cass Street during a snowy January day as they prepare to shoot a Super Bowl commercial for Jeep. Their return to the site where the 1993 movie was filmed was an early highlight for Woodstock in 2020. See our annual Yearbook on Page 17.
News of 2020 has a viral theme Barely three months into 2020, the world changed, and Woodstock was not immune from the repercussions. We had fun in late January when Bill Murray returned to shoot a TV commerical for Jeep, celebrated our annual Groundhog Days festival with a record crowd in February, and followed local high school sports into early March. Then the coronavirus pandemic
arrived, bringing with it a state and local “state of emergency” that included a statewide “shelter in place” order from the governor. That effectively ended in-class instruction at our schools and canceled festivals and sporting events during spring, summer ,and fall. So you won’t be surprised, as you read through the chronology of events in the Woodstock area for 2020, by
the many references to how COVID-19 disrupted our lives and led to thousands of confirmed cases and more than 175 deaths in McHenry County so far. Starting on Page 17 is the third annual Yearbook edition of The Independent, which we hope will be an annual keepsake edition. Let us know what you think. – Larry Lough, editor
NEWS
Dec. 16-22, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
2
Officials confirm order of vaccine
BONDS
Continued from Page 1
The back-loaded debt threatened to balloon the district’s tax levy next spring. But the board last month agreed to a plan that, among other things, will extend the payoff by five years, until 2037, at what was expected to be an additional $19.5 million expense. “Instead of being $19.5 million,” Hanson told the board, “because interest rates were so much lower than when [the bond adviser’s] presentation back in October, the cost is only $10.5 million.” The adviser, Jennifer Currier from PMA Securities of Chicago, had assumed 3.16 percent for the taxable bonds, which were sold at 2.06 percent, Hanson explained, and instead of an expected rate of 3.5 percent for taxexempt bonds, they were sold at 2.25 percent.
Keeping tax bill flat
The district’s debt plan in 2021 will increase the annual $2.3 million bond payment to $8 million. The difference will include $5 million from the $27 million surplus currently available. The board has approved a $5 million annual payment from the surplus for up to five years, with the option to change that amount in three years, which is the end of the first phase of a two-phase approach. And to avoid a tax rate increase next spring or a reducation of expenses next year, the board also decided last month to use $700,000 from an expected surplus in the current fiscal year budget, which has seen expenses reduced by the coronavirus pandemic. Because of an estimated 3.5 percent increase in taxable value of property in the district, property tax bills in 2021 will actually go down, even though the amount of tax money D-200 collects will increase by 2.7 percent. So, taxes will decrease by about $38 on a home with a market value of $200,000, Hanson confirmed last week. The school tax bill on that home
PUBLIC SAFETY LOG Woodstock Police Department
■ Armando Nunez Ruiz, 37, Plainfield, was arrested Nov. 24 at North and Wheeler streets on charges of expired registration, driving while license suspended, and obstructing identification and a McHenry County warrant charging probation violation. Taken to jail. Held on $15,000, $100, and $2,500 bonds. Court dates Jan. 7 and to be set. ■ Cody P. Stack, 32, Woodstock, was arrested Nov. 25 in the 1000 block of Lake Avenue on a charge of leaving
Staff Report
NEWS@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
PMA SECURITIES
This is the approach Woodstock School District 200 has chosen to address its $160 million school construction debt. this year was a little more than $4,000. Superintendent Mike Moan told board members last month that they could change their approach next year in terms of increasing taxes, reducing expenses, or spending additional funds from the surplus. “This is a one-year commitment,” Moan told the board in November. “If you don’t want to do it next year, you don’t have to.” The board has used the surplus in recent years to keep a lid on the debt levy, but because of the pandemic, the district is not guaranteed to have a budget surplus to avoid expense cuts in future years. The district gets about two-thirds of its revenue for a $100 million budget from property taxes. But D-200 also gets millions in state aid, which is considered to be vulnerable to the economic downturn. Hanson said last week that budget assumptions for next year included a “flat” revenue line of about $20 million for state aid. At last week’s meeting, the board formally set the 2020 property tax levy the scene of an accident with property damage. Released after posting 10 percent of $2,500 bond. Court date Jan. 7. ■ Whitney M. Howard, 29, Chicago, was arrested Nov. 29 in the 400 block of Raffel Road on two DeKalb County warrants charging failure to appear. Released after posting 10 percent of $5,000 and $3,000 bonds and paying $75 failure to appear fees. Court date Jan. 4.
Woodstock Fire/Rescue District EMS calls for Dec. 3-9: 48
of $61.16 million. But the tax rate will drop because of the expected increase in the taxable value of property in the district, which extends beyond Woodstock’s city limits. Based on the the county’s estimate for property values in the district, the D-200 tax rate is expected to drop to $6.55 per $100 of taxable value, down from $6.61 this year.
Enrollment to ‘increase’
Budget parameters approved last week for 2021-22 also see D-200 enrollment increasing by about 300 students – in a sense. Anticipated enrollment of 6,317 counts on a return to levels before COVID-19 prevented some students from enrolling, Hanson said. And Moan reported 200 preschool students also are expected next year, assuming that program resumes after being suspended this year during remote learning. “It’s a return to normalcy is what we project,” Moan said. “We could be wrong.” Fire Runs Dec. 3
6:12 a.m. – 200 block of Riverview Drive, Algonquin, assist police or other agency; tender 3:20 p.m. – 2300 block of Eastwood Drive, carbon monoxide incident; engine 6:44 p.m. – 3300 block of Castle Road, unintentional alarm system activation, no fire; shift commander, engine Dec. 4
5:47 p.m. – 1200 block of South Eastwood Drive, traffic accident with no injuries; truck, ambulance, shift commander 6:42 p.m. – 100 block of East Prairie
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Healthcare workers and longterm care facilities will be the first to receive the COVID-19 vaccine when in arrives in McHenry County, the Department of Health announced Friday. The priority follows guidelines of the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Next in line will be “essential frontline workers” – such as workers in education, food and agriculture, utilities, police, firefighters, corrections officers, and transportation. Third will be adults with high-risk medical conditions and adults 65 years and older who do not reside in a long-term care facility, health officials announced.
WEEKLY COVID-19 CASES FOR McHENRY COUNTY Report Infections 03/29 04/05 04/12 04/19 04/26 05/03 05/10 05/17 05/24 05/31 06/07 06/14 06/21 06/28 07/05 07/12 07/19 07/26 08/02 08/09 08/16 08/23 08/30 09/04 09/11 09/18 09/25 10/02 10/09 10/16 10/25 11/01 11/08 11/15 11/22 11/29 12/6 12/13
52 133 (+81) 234 (+101) 348 (+114) 503 (+155) 703 (+200) 953 (+250) 1,175 (+223) 1,407 (+232) 1,584 (+177) 1,733 (+149) 1,849 (+116) 1,911 (+62) 2,002 (+91) 2,119 (+117) 2,268 (+149) 2,470 (+202) 2,703 (+233) 2,946 (+243) 3,210 (+264) 3,396 (+186) 3.598 (+202) 3,828 (+230) 4,002 (+174) 4,199 (+197) 4,343 (+144) 4,527 (+184) 4,705 (+178) 4,992 (+288) 5,298 (+306) *6,035 (+737) *6,906 (+871) *8,170 (+1,264) *10,301 (+2,131) *11,602 (+1,301) *12,432 (+830) *15,091 (+2,659) *16,176 (+1,085)
* Change to state metrics
Deaths
2 3 (+1) 7 (+4) 16 (+9) 28 (+12) 39 (+11) 50 (+11) 61 (+11) 69 (+8) 73 (+4) 83 (+10) 87 (+4) 90 (+3) 96 (+6) 97 (+1) 101 (+4) 106 (+5) 108 (+2) 112 (+4) 113 (+1) 113 (+0) 113 (+0) 115 (+2) 116 (+1) 116 (+0) 118 (+2) 118 (+0) 119 (+1) 119 (+0) 120 (+1) 120 (+0) 120 (+0) 120 (+0) 120 (+0) 136 (+16) 147 (+11) 163 (+16) 176 (+13)
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Street, Marengo, cover assignment/ standby; ambulance
Two killed when car rams another vehicle from rear
WOODSTOCK FIRE/RESCUE DISTRICT PHOTO
Firefighters pour water from above on a burning barn Dec. 8 at Route 47 and Charles Road. The building housed Doghouse Music Barn.
Fire in old barn destroys Woodstock music venue
Dec. 6
12:27 a.m. – Route 120 and Chatham Lane, gas leak (natural or LP); engine 7:40 a.m. – 100 block of North Eastwood Drive, lockout; truck 10:19 a.m. – 300 block of Leah Lane, lockout; truck 6:13 p.m. – 3700 block of Alden Road, carbon monoxide incident; engine 8:19 p.m. – 300 block of West South Street, gas leak (natural or LP); truck 8:42 p.m. – 300 block of South Jefferson Street, gas leak (natural or LP); truck Dec. 7
11:48 a.m. – 200 block of Main Street, unintentional detector activation, no fire; truck 5:41 p.m. – First block of North Eastwood Drive, traffic accident with no injuries; truck, ambulance, shift commander
Dec. 8
8:07 a.m. – 12600 block of Charles Road, building fire; shift commander, ambulance, truck, two engines, two tenders 1:32 p.m. – 2500 block of Applewood Lane, public service assistance/other; truck Dec. 9
5:38 a.m. – 2000 block of Willow Brooke Drive, unintentional alarm system activation, no fire; shift commander, engine, truck, ambulance 6:33 a.m. – South Eastwood Drive and U.S. 14, traffic accident with injuries and extrication; shift commander, engine, truck, two ambulances 8:06 a.m. – Route 47 and Charles Road, smoke or odor removal; tender, shift commander, truck 12:25 p.m. – 100 block of Grove Street, unintentional smoke detector activation, no fire; shift commander, truck, engine, ambulance 1:10 p.m. – Seminary Avenue and Ware Road, no incident found on arrival; engine, shift commander, brush truck 1:40 p.m. – 900 block of Lake Avenue, lockout; truck 3:35 p.m. – 100 block of East Prairie Street, Marengo; assist police or other agency
NEWS
Investigators are looking for the cause of a fire in an old barn that destroyed a music and event venue north of Woodstock. Firefighters battled heavy fire and smoke Dec 8 when they responded to the blaze at Route 47 and Charles Road. The barn, 12608 Charles Road, was the home of Doghouse Music Barn, which had hosted bands this fall. A man who answered the phone at the venue declined to comment about the fire or issue a statement about what he called a “devastating” loss.
12:54 p.m. – 9300 block of Shadow Lane, Wonder Lake, unintentional smoke detector activation, no fire; engine, truck, tender 4:59 p.m. – 1200 block of Lake Avenue, malfunctioning alarm system sounded; shift commander, engine, truck, ambulance
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Dec. 16-22, 2020
Did a “medical emergency” by a Harvard man while driving lead to a two-car crash last week that killed two other men and sent the driver to the hospital with what were described as life-threatening injuries? That’s a theory police were pursuing after two Harvard men died when their car was rear-ended by an auto traveling at a “very high rate of speed” in the eastbound lanes of U.S. 14 at Route 47 during the pre-dawn hours Dec. 9. Police said drugs and/or alcohol were not believed to be a factor in the crash, and investigators are looking into whether the one driver had suffered a medical emergency while on the road. The two men pronounced dead at the scene were identified as the driver of the second car, Augustin J. Herrera, 34, and his passenger, J. Felix Ortiz, 47, both of Harvard. The injured man, 42, was not identified. Woodstock police said their preliminary investigation indicated a Ford Fusion was speeding eastbound on U.S. 14 when it rear-ended a Mazda Protege, which was stopped waiting to turn south. GoFundMe pages have been established for the two victims.
Dec. 5
7:29 p.m. – Bull Valley Road and High Meadow Drive, traffic accident with injuries; truck, shift commander, two ambulances
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
IN BRIEF
NEWS
Dec. 16-22, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
4
OBITUARIES
Brett Ralph Coleman, 67
Brett Ralph Coleman, 67, passed away on Dec. 11, 2020. He was born in Fond du Lac, Wis., on April 15, 1953, to Mary Genevieve (Mullen) Coleman and Ralph Edson Coleman. He operated many successful bars and restaurants in Elgin, Dundee, Chicago, Crystal Lake, Cary and Algonquin, Ill. Brett Ralph He also built and Coleman owned a Holiday Inn Express in Algonquin. Brett was a compassionate and generous man who had an excitement for life, which made him a friend to all and mentor to many. Brett married Ann Elizabeth Brislen on Feb. 19, 1983, in Chicago. They raised their four children, Seth Ralph, Egan Russell, Brady Michael, and Mae Elizabeth, in Crystal Lake. Brett is survived by his wife, Ann; three sons, Seth of San Clemente, Calif., Egan of Algonquin, and Brady (Brittni) of Crystal Lake; his daughter, Mae (Amari) of Crystal Lake; his sisters, Carole (Glen) Lea and Cathie Kelly, both of Union City, Calif.; his brothers, Barry Coleman of Woodstock, Kelly (Mary) Coleman of Dundee, and Kevin (Sally) Coleman of Wesley Chapel, Fla.; his cousins, Sherri (Don) Ross of Calgary, Canada, and Bryan (Molly) Mullen of Evanston, Ill.; his sisters-in-law, Kathy Coleman of Carpentersville, Ill., Ruth (Jim) Center of Cerrillos, N.M., Joan Elms of Carpentersville, Sue (Bruce) Alfrejd of Streamwood, Ill., and Jaki (Richard) Parsons of Rockford, Ill. Brett is also survived by his adored grandchildren, Elliana, Nash, Anakin, and step-granddaughter Lily, all of Crystal Lake, as well as, many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Brett was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Genevieve Coleman; a brother, Brian Coleman; cousin, Craig Mullen; nephew, Brian Kelly; brother-in-law, Jim Kelly; and father- and mother-in-law, John and Loretta Brislen. Visitation is limited to the immediate family. Funeral Mass will be Friday Dec. 18, 2020, at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 10307 Dundee Road, Huntley, IL. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Milton, Wis. All are welcome to join the family for a celebration of Brett’s life, which will be held in the summer of 2021. To be contacted with more information about how to attend, please leave your contact information on the Schneider, Leucht, Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home website at slmcfh.com.
Carol A. Jarnecke, 87 Carol A. Jarnecke, 87, of Woodstock, passed away at her home with her daughter by her side on Dec. 12, 2020. She was born on Sept. 7, 1933, in Woodstock, where she resided her entire life. She was the middle child of three children born to Albert and Emma Holtfreter. She graduated from Woodstock High School in 1952. She married Norman Jarnecke Carol A. on Oct. 21, 1960. Jarnecke They were married for 50 years. Carol had a variety of jobs while she was raising her family. She worked at Northwood Elementary School, Hornsby’s, Sears, K-Mart, and lastly, The State Bank of Woodstock until her retirement in 1995. A lifelong member of Grace Lutheran Church in Woodstock, Carol taught Sunday school and served as a leader for Naomi Circle for years. In her spare time, Carol was an avid reader. She enjoyed crafts and was a master when it came to assembling a puzzle. By far, her greatest joy was her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Carol is survived by her three children, Kevin (Carrie) Jarnecke, Wayne (Beth) Jarnecke, and Sandra Roberts; seven grandchildren, Jeremy (Rachel) Jarnecke, Justin (Jennifer Grob) Jarnecke, Joshua Jarnecke, Brittany (Joshua) Laudick, Brigitte (Shaun) Baker, and Amber and Abigail Roberts; six great-grandchildren, Emma, Madelyn, Grace, Clayton, Gabriella, and Ariella as well as many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Norman; sister, Jeanette Wesemann; brother, Richard Holtfreter; brother-in-law, Herman Wesemann; and sister-in-law, Phyllis Holtfreter. Due to Covid-19, we are unable to have services at this time. A celebration of Carol’s life will take place at a later date. Memorials in her name can be made to JourneyCare, 405 Lake Zurich Road, Barrington, IL 60010, or Grace Lutheran Church in Woodstock. For information call the funeral home at 815-338-1710 or see the website at slmcfh.com.
Ralph F. Kammermeier, 83
Sept. 10, 1937 – Dec. 8, 2020 Ralph Frank Kammermeier passed away peacefully Dec. 8, 2020, at the age of 83, surrounded by his wife, Maureen, his children and his grandchildren. Son of the late Frank and Anna (Gerd-ToBerens) Kammermeier, Ralph was raised in Chicago, graduated from Saint Mel’s High School in 1955, and graduated from the University of Illinois in ChampaignUrbana with a mechanical engineering
degree in 1959. April 27, 1963, he married Mary (Maureen) Teresa Hopkins, his wife of 57 years. He started his 28-year career as a mechanical engineer at Evans Products and advanced to plant manager of three locations, leading 500 employees. In 1985, he purchased Woodstock Lumber, which became his labor of love for the next 35 years. In that time, he created numerous skilled jobs and Ralph Frank became a leader of Kammermeier the small business community and was beloved by his business neighbors and loyal customers. He was seen six days a week with his yellow tape measure suspenders and a smile on his face. Together, Ralph and Maureen raised their six children in Woodstock, Ill. As a devoted husband and father, he took an active role in activities at St. Mary Catholic School and Marian Central Catholic High School. He loved traveling the country with his children in the pop-up camper. His summers were spent swimming, sailing, and boating in Lake Geneva. He savored his afternoons floating with his noddle while watching his grandchildren enjoy the lake. Sundays were spent in lively conversation with his family and neighbors. Ralph is survived by his wife, Maureen; his two sisters, Rosemary Mondi of Roswell, Ga., and Regina Darda of Clinton, Iowa; and his six children, Michelle (Peter) Hedlin of Woodstock; Linette (Geoff) Van Flandern of Wellesley, Mass., Mark (Mary) Kammermeier of Lake Geneva, Wis., Renee (Rusty) Hopp of Spring Grove, Ill., Dione (Brian) Ross of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Carl (Valerie) Kammermeier of Venice, Fla. In addition, Ralph has 18 much-loved grandchildren; Erika, Danielle, and Lauren Hedlin, Elizabeth, Erin, Claire, and Michael Van Flandern, Katherine and Jack Kammermeier, Johnathan, Katelyn, and Brian Hopp, Morgan, Peyton, and Amada Ross, and Cole and Kella Kammermeier. Ralph is preceded in death by his grandchildren Erin Marie Van Flandern and Gretchen Kammermeier. Funeral Mass will be held at 11A.M., Saturday, Dec. 19, at St. Mary Catholic Church, 312 Lincoln Ave., in Woodstock. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Habitat for Humanity of McHenry County, P.O. Box 1166 McHenry, IL 60051, or Newton Country Day School of the Sacred Heart, 785 Centre St., Newton, MA 02458, for the Erin Marie Van Flandern Scholarship Fund. Online condolences can be made at slmcfh.com.
Darlene E. Lilja, 84 Darlene E. Lilja passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2020. She was born on June 29, 1936, in Woodstock, Ill., the daughter of Thore and Hulda Emricson. She was married to her high school sweetheart, Milton E. Lilja, in Woodstock on Jan. 19, 1957. Darlene and Milton were married Darlene E. for nearly 64 years; Lilja they resided overseas and in multiple locations throughout Milton’s military career prior to settling in Colorado. Darlene was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church; she loved the Lord and devoted 10 years of service as church secretary in addition to her countless hours of volunteer work. She enjoyed watching sports and especially attending baseball games. She was passionate about gardening and butterflies. It brought her great joy to spend her evenings coloring and visiting with her family. Darlene had a special relationship with each of her seven siblings; however, she always enjoyed the special times she spent with her two sisters. Survivors, in addition to her husband, are one son, Brian Lilja (Danette), Monument, Colo.; two daughters, Brenda McGovern (Howard Absetz), Colorado Springs, Colo., and Bonnie Mazza (Jarett), Burlington, N.J.; three granddaughters and one great-granddaughter; a sister, Carol Knudsen, Woodstock, Ill.; two brothers, Larry Emricson, Woodstock, Ill., and Kenneth Emricson, Colorado Springs, Colo.; and many nieces and nephews. Three brothers, Ronald Emricson, LaVern Emricson, and Keith Emricson, and one sister, Anna Marie Emricson, preceded her in death. A general fund, in the memory of Darlene Lilja, has been established at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colo. Send obituaries to pr@thewoodstockindependent.com.
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OPINION
Dec. 16-22, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
6
Opinion
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
Cheryl Wormley Publisher, Co-Owner
Paul Wormley Co-Owner
Woodstock, IL • 1987
THE EDITORIAL BOARD
Cheryl Wormley Larry Lough Sandy Kucharski Ken Farver
Major disruption dominated life in 2020
2020 didn’t go quite like anyone had expected. After nearly three months of relative normalcy, we have experienced nine months of continuous disruption. The novel coronavirus has affected our work and play time, our personal and social lives, our plans and hopes for the future. So, we hope you will forgive the unmistakable thread of COVID-19 that dominates the 2020 chronology in The Independent’s annual Yearbook edition this week. But the pull-out section, which starts on Page 17 today, is still a celebration of life in Woodstock throughout the year. This special edition still recognizes the victories and championships, the honors and graduations, the notable performances and achievements of the people of Woodstock. So, you will see photos that recognize special moments of many high school athletes, local graduates, veterans, and civic activities – despite the pandemic. In words and pictures, we try to capture that especially wide variety of things that made 2020 unique in our community. Of course, the mosaic would not be complete without that significant piece of our daily lives that was altered by the virus. Inside the Yearbook section, starting in March, you will find more than a few photographs of people wearing face masks, which must have been the unofficial clothing accessory of 2020. Although the election of 2020 was a big story throughout the year, one that could influence our
EDITORIAL CARTOON BY LUKE GOINS
lives in the years ahead, stories about such public affairs don’t come close to defining our residents and our community, so you won’t read much about it in the local month-to-month chronology of the past 12
months. Of course, no telling of history is complete, so we apologize for those deserving people, places, and things that did not make our list of notables.
The gift of an angel at Christmastime Every day during the final week before Christmas, Nathan arrived at the factory by 7 a.m. His division was putting finishing touches on angel ornaments, the most requested design. Many adults had ordered angels for teachers and grandparents who were working to educate their children online. Others were including truckers and garbage haulers, postal workers and vote re-counters as angel recipients. Folks all across the world were grateful to everyday heroes, and they wanted to give a little token of their appreciation. Nathan limped into the building. When he was born, his right leg was underdeveloped and never caught up with the left one. It remained about 3 inches shorter than its partner.
Of course, bullies had pointed and laughed when Nathan shuffled by or stumbled on the playground. The first 75 years of the elf’s life had been the hardest, Jan but now Nathan Bosman had adapted to Guest Columnist his malady. One pointed shoe, custom made with a lift, had helped his balance and self-esteem. And, he loved his work in the Ornament Division of Santa Claus’ enterprise. He had advanced in his position because he took pride in finishing beautiful ornaments every year, and the 2020
ornament was his all-time favorite. On this morning, he hustled to his workstation. He had to turn out 200 glass angels before his shift was done. His job was to attach the silver string on the angel’s back loop, sprinkle the 3-inch angel with stardust, and pack it gently in a balsam-scented box. This year Santa had asked each elf to wear a mask during the workday because a deadly virus was sweeping the world. The North Pole workers felt relatively safe because they didn’t encounter many people, but last week an envoy from Washington, D.C., had flown in with 1,000 angel ornament requests for outgoing White House personnel. So, after that unexpected visit, Santa was uneasy about any of his elves going maskless and had
issued appropriate face coverings to each worker. Nathan was willing to wear a mask. “No big deal,” he told his friend Ernest. “I can do my part, although I have a mark on both cheeks at the end of each day, and my glasses sometimes get steamy.” Some of the elves, of course, knew that Santa wasn’t going to fire them during this busy season; so they wore their masks only when he was overseeing their departments. “I think masks are foolish,” James said. “Who’s going to get sick anyway? Elves have lived as many as 750 years. They probably have natural immunity. And if their time is up, their time is up.” Nathan, however, faithfully wore
Continued on Next page
n Light candles. I took last week’s Declarations to heart and gathered up candles that I had stashed away around the house. I hope you did, too. I’ve been lighting them every afternoon as the sun goes down – candles of joy, hope, courage, peace, grace, and love. n Ready sleds, ice skates, crosscountry skis, and crampons. Snow and cold will come. The fences are up and ready on the sledding hill at Emricson Park. n Shop Woodstock! n Bake cookies, call friends, and run errands for someone who is really shut in. n Wear masks, social distance, and wash your hands. P.S. A huge thank you to the Ericksens for the tremendous time and effort given for the enjoyment of all of us. Thank you to Woodstock Rotary Club members and their families and friends who packed all the food and toys this year. Thank you to everyone who donated to Christmas Clearing House. Donations can still be made at wooodstockcares.org or with a check to P.O. Box 53, Woodstock. P.P.S. What I want for Christmas: for all the children to be back learning in their schools and for residents of nursing and group homes to be vaccinated so they can safely move out of their rooms, congregate with one another, and enjoy visits from family and friends.
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bedroom. He rubbed his right leg with a cream that softened the skin and eased its aching muscle. When he crawled into bed, he relaxed his mind and drifted. He thought about all of the angel ornaments he had finished and boxed. He wondered where each would be hung and whether the recipient would appreciate the significance. In the early morning, he awoke as usual, although there was no factory work to be done that day. Nathan stretched under his down comforter, first his left leg and then his right. He had a notion that an angel had been in the room while he was drifting, but he couldn’t be positive that he wasn’t just conjuring up images of angel ornaments. He stretched again. His right leg felt different this morning. Maybe it was that new cream he had used. Maybe it was the fact that he didn’t have to
jump out of bed, hit the cold floor running, and work overtime at the factory. He stretched one last time. Then, slowly, Nathan swung both legs over the side of the bed. He looked down. His legs seemed the same length! He shook his head and opened and closed his eyes several times. Maybe, he thought, I need a new prescription now that I’m 125 years old. He stood up, and both feet touched the floor at the same time. Nathan turned to his nightstand and clicked on the light. A scribbled note leaned against the base of the lamp. On star-dusted stationery were these words: “A special gift to you, Nathan. From your Christmas angel.”
his mask while he worked to create Christmas angels for doctors and nurses, sales clerks and newspaper people. Maybe his short leg had made him more sympathetic to the plight of others. For whatever reason, Nathan kept his mask firmly in place while tying, dusting, and packing angels until he met his quota each day. When the 24th of December arrived, all of the orders had been filled. Nathan and the other workers cheered and waved as Santa Claus and the reindeer set out on their long journey. Some elves headed for a glass or two of wine at The Tipsy Elf, but Nathan rushed home. He was eager for a long walk with his dog, Oliver, a pal he had neglected during his long work hours. A little before midnight, exhausted, Nathan ambled toward his inviting
Cheryl Wormley is publisher of The Woodstock Independent. Her email address is c.wormley@thewoodstockindependent.com.
Jan Bosman of Woodstock taught English and business education in public schools for more than 30 years.
Subscription rates/year $75 in Woodstock, Bull Valley and Wonder Lake. $77 in McHenry County. $82 for snowbirds and $90 outside McHenry County.
Corrections
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OPINION
JPL advises, “For the best viewing, find a safe location away from bright lights, lie down on the ground with your feet pointing south and look up. Meteors will appear in any part Cheryl Wormley of the sky.” ViewDeclarations ing is expected to be good all night in the Northern Hemisphere. n Take a drive around the Square. The lights on the trees and bushes in the Park in the Square are really, really beautiful. While you’re out, check out the spruce in front of City Hall. It is a spectacle of multicolored lights from top to bottom. The Holiday Lights Contest winners offer another opportunity to see lights, lights, and more lights. The winners weren’t announced until after we went to press. We will post them on the woodstockindependent.com. n Put the “great conjunction” – the close pairing of Jupiter and Saturn – on your calendar for Dec. 21. They haven’t appeared this close to one another for nearly 400 years, and they won’t close in on one other like this for an additional 60 years. As a result of their closeness, they will look as if they have merged into a single beacon. Neil recommends watching them every evening leading up to the 21st – the winter solstice. Look for them low in the southwest sky in the hour after sunset. Binoculars or a telescope aren’t necessary, but will provide a better look.
671 E. Calhoun St. • Woodstock, IL 60098 Phone: 815-338-8040 www.thewoodstockindependent.com
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Dec. 16-22, 2020
For those of us who have read Dr. Seuss books, “What to do? What to do?” sounds like one of his wellcrafted lines or themes. But for all of us who are accustomed to holiday traditions that aren’t happening this year, it’s a daily or even hourly query. December 2020 seems a bust – gone are carriage rides on the Square; performances of “A Christmas Story” or “A Christmas Carol” at the Opera House; choir concerts; and the usual array of worship services, holiday parties, and gatherings with family and friends. “What to do? What to do?” Here are some possibilities: n Help deliver the Christmas Clearing House food, toys, and gifts. There isn’t a sign up. Just show up starting at 8 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, at 1191 Lake Ave. You will be given two deliveries. Once they are delivered, you can go back and pick up two more and two more until all 1,100 baskets are delivered. n Drive out on Bull Valley Road to see the Ericksens’ reindeer and angel light displays on both sides of the road. There are scores and scores of reindeer, including some that appear to be arching across the road. New, at least to me, this year are angels with lovely burgundy-ribbons tied around their waists. Believe me, the display is well worth a couple of visits. n Check out the Geminids meteor showers. Don’t wait. This is the best week to see them. Neil Mottinger, a high school classmate of mine who works at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, gave me the heads up and a link to JPL’s “What’s Up.”
Woodstock
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What to do? What to do?
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Schools
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in Gabbard’s leadership. “He has continued to exceed the high expectations we, as a board, had for him upon his arrival in early 2016,” Smith said in the release, Clinton “and we are confiGabbard dent that his leadership will remain vital to McHenry County College’s extraordinary success moving forward.” Gabbard has helped move the college
forward in a variety of strategic areas, the release said, including student enrollment growth; a growing apprenticeship and internship program with area employers; extensive renovations across campus; the launch of a new Center for Agrarian Learning; and most recently, the college’s proactive COVID-19 response, and an institution-wide initiative on diversity and inclusion. Before joining MCC in 2016, Gabbard was in administration and leadership roles at Lake Michigan College, Walla Walla Community College, Purdue University, and University of Notre Dame. He and his wife, Ronda, live in Bull Valley.
NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Amanda Harmer was hired as a career facilitator 16 years ago to help embed career exploration at all grade levels in Woodstock School District 200. That position has never been more important as the career-oriented program is preparing students for jobs as basic nursing assistants during the pandemic. “In my opinion, one of the shining points about D-200 is their vast opportunities in career and technical education that can help prepare students for their future careers,” Harmer said. She is responsible for helping high school students with post-secondary planning. She is the liaison between D-200 and McHenry County College for dual-credit courses and early college opportunities. Classes are offered at Woodstock and Woodstock North high schools in nine career paths: 12 courses in business; five in manufacturing; nine in STEM; six in building trades; three in automotive; two in healthcare; five in foods; four in education; and six in graphic design. A dozen classes among these fields offer college credit as well.
IN BRIEF Virtual ceremony honors MCC’s summer, fall grads More than 400 summer and fall graduates of McHenry County College were recognized in a virtual commencement ceremony Saturday that can been seen at mchenry.edu/graduation. More than 100 of the graduates earned honors or high honors with a GPA of 3.50 or greater. The students represent nearly 45 different programs, with Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, Basic Nursing Assistant Certificate, Occupational Therapy Assistant AAS, and Physical Therapist Assistant
COURTESY PHOTO
Woodstock North High School senior Colette Jones and Woodstock High School junior Abigail Weber are pictured with a “patient,” Mr. Jones, during a patient-care class. Students who successfully complete D-200’s basic nursing assistant program are eligible to take the certified nursing exam. Students also become CPR certified.
Job placement success
The nursing program has had a special focus during this pandemic year. Students who successfully complete the basic nursing assistant program
AAS programs producing the most graduates. The first group to complete the College’s Hospitality Marketing certificate also graduated.
MCC president’s contract extended through 2024
McHenry County College President Clinton Gabbard has received a contract extension through 2024. Gabbard became the college’s eighth president in 2016. In a news release, Board of Trustees Chairman Mike Smith said the extension reflected the board’s confidence
SCHOOLS
are eligible to take the certified nursing exam. Students also become CPR certified in the course. “We have 100 percent job placement in our BNA program for those who
become certified,” Harmer reported. “Due to the demand for healthcare workers, we have had six students currently working since October for noncertified roles locally.” First semester had 17 students in the BNA class, 12 from WHS and five from WNHS. Next semester includes 19 students, with 10 from WHS and nine from WNHS. Even though the classes are held virtually, small groups of students come in on asynchronous Fridays to do hands-on patient care as allowed by the Illinois Department of Health. “The students also did 20 hours of hands-on clinical time and completed 20 hours of simulation,” Harmer said. “At such a critical time for healthcare workers, we are excited to be preparing students for employment.” Certifications and internships are offered in many of the career class opportunities. The areas of education, manufacturing and STEM offer internships. Building trades students all received a 10-hour OSHA safety certification, and the foods students received a safety and sanitation certification. “These in conjunction with our dual-credit courses, in which students receive high school and college credit through MCC, are a huge benefit to our students and their futures,” Harmer said.
By Janet Dovidio
Dec. 16-22, 2020
Basic nursing course makes District 200 students job-ready
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
Students preparing for career paths
Congratulations to the 2020 Holiday Lights Contest Winners! Thank you to all the entrants of the inaugural Holiday Lights Contest. We welcome you to visit all the participants. A map can be found on the Chamber website.
Grand Prize Winner
Second Place Winner
There’s Snowflake Like Home
The Sofie Family
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Dec. 16-22, 2020
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1241 Amber Court
631 Hickman Lane
Category Winners Victorian Christmas Zuzu’s Petals 488 W. Judd Street
Winter Wonderland Great Woodstock Christmas Light Fight 344 Fremont Lane
Best Decorated Business Window MD Trains 130 Cass Street
Clark W. Griswold The Thoughtfulness Shop 104 Cass Street
Most Festive Block Jingle on Judd West Judd Street
Gingerbread House My Little Bow Peeps Shop 102 Cass Street
The 2020 Holiday Lights Contest is brought to you by the Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the City of Woodstock and Real Woodstock.
REAL TRADITION. REAL FESTIVE.
A&E
11
Dec. 16-22, 2020
Second performance set this coming Saturday will be for a ‘virtual theater experience’
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
‘Nutcracker’ adapts; show goes on By Tricia Carzoli
NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Production adapted
The reduction in performances – this past Saturday and again this coming Saturday –means there is less in-person contact, but more opportunity for patrons to see “Clara’s Dream” at their leisure. Dancers are socially distanced and wear masks 100 percent of the time. Svalander said they would be sanitizing each time they are off stage. “[The dancers’] dedication, their hopes and dreams for a future in theater are slightly on hold,” she said, “but their ferocious, burning passion to move, their deep soul-felt drive to train and emotion need to express themselves ... this is why we continue to provide for them. “It’s very hard for people to stop training so many hours a day and not have physical and mental repercussions. We want to keep them safe, and we feel
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
As 2020 closes out and with modified Christmas traditions being the norm this season, Judith Svalander Dance Theater’s “Nutcracker” is no exception. Though the production has undergone constant tweaking over many months, after much consideration, the show will go on – just not as planned. What was once billed as a 10-show production titled “Clara’s Dream: a One-Hour Nutcracker” that would welcome a limited audience will now be a two-show production, which is being live-streamed only. “Obviously, this is not where we had hoped to be,” said Daniel Campbell, managing director of Woodstock Opera House. “We were waiting to the wire to see if we could pull this off. When it was clear that we couldn’t do this the way we had hoped, we took the governor’s mandates seriously and the health department’s guidelines seriously, and we changed course.” Campbell indicated his support for the dancers. “We wanted to honor the dancers’ hard work and dedication – they practice for months, and practice at home and in limited capacity at the studio,” he said. “We feel confident that we are doing the right thing. The safety of the dancers and the safety of our patrons and staff is the highest priority.” He also said this would be the Opera House’s inaugural live-stream performance. “Although we cannot have a live audience, we are super excited to have live-stream happening and to realize that our dancer alumni, friends, and relatives can join us,” said director Judith Svalander, founder of Judith Svalander School of Ballet.
COURTESY PHOTO
Anita Wierer performs the role of the ballerina doll under the watchful eye of Laura Bobowski as Mother Ginger, and Kayden Petrik plays the role of Fritz in a one-hour “Nutcracker.” that their safety includes the complete person. We knew going into this that it was a loss economically, and yet we knew that we have to carefully navigate this for their sake.” Redesigned to fit into one-hour, the Clara’s Dream production features actor Peter Heinz’s narration. Arianna Hogue performed the role of Clara on Dec. 12, and Maja Tryba will perform the role on Dec. 19, each taking the audience through the land of Snow and Sweets. No pas de deux will be performed this year in order to maintain the dancers’ safety, and only company dancers along with a few pivotal younger students will be included in the 15-person cast. No costumes will be shared, and everything will be spray sanitized. The two performances will showcase new costumes and new choreography as well as some featured dancers from Woodstock.
‘Venture into new territory’
Laura Bobowski, one of the production directors and 40-year veteran JSSD performer and instructor, will resume her role as Mother Ginger. Ten-year-old
Kayden Petrik will play Fritz, and Anita Wierer, 15, will dance the ballerina doll, Snowflake, and Tiger Lily. “Fortunately,” Svalander said, “following all safety guidelines, the Opera House and JSSB/Judith Svalander Dance Theater are able to accommodate this while growing the Woodstock Opera House into a state-of-the-art virtual theater experience. We feel very excited to venture into this new territory.” According to an Opera House news release, patrons who have already bought in-person tickets will be granted live-stream access to both productions, and they will be able to donate their initial ticket to the JSDT or receive the difference via a refund. Campbell stressed that the Opera House was offering use of the facility at no cost to the JSDT with the hope of helping to cover the cost of the preparation, costuming, and sets. Live-stream tickets are available for purchase online at woodstockoperahouse.com. The cost is $18. Patrons will be granted live-stream access for the Dec. 19 performance at 2 p.m., and the performance will be available in archived footage through Dec. 31.
Pet Week of the
SAVING JUST ONE PET WON’T CHANGE THE WORLD BUT, SURELY, THE WORLD WILL CHANGE FOR THAT ONE PET.
“Sweetie Pie” 1-year-old female
To see this pet or others or to volunteer to help walk dogs, call the shelter at:
815-338-4400
Temporary hours: M/W/F/SA 12 PM - 4 PM by appointment only 2500 Harding Lane, Woodstock (Off Rt. 14 at the Lake Shore Dr. traffic light)
Introducing Sweetie Pie! Sweetie Pie is a domestic short-haired mix available for adoption at Helping Paws Animal Shelter. She is a very gentle girl who definitely lives up to her name. Sweetie Pie entered the shelter as a very timid stray. It takes time for her to open up and feel comfortable around others, so she is in search of a patient home where she can get some TLC. Sweetie pie loves her comfy beds, scratching posts, and personal space. She would do best in a quiet home with a compassionate cat lover! If you can offer this sweet girl the life full of love that she deserves, contact Helping Paws to set up a visit.
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REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS Transactions filed in the McHenry County Recorder’s Office Oct. 2 to 6 .
Building a better brew
Kishwaukee Brewing becomes third new brewery in Woodstock By Susan W. Murray
NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Kishwaukee Brewing Co. owner Dan Payson’s switch from architect to brewer might not strike you as a common career path. Stand inside the company’s taproom at 1900 Dillard Court, however, and the benefits of the brewer’s design background become obvious. Complementing the 10,000 squarefoot building’s functionality and efficiency, the taproom features an industrial loft design. But what can come off as cold and cavernous is instead warm and cozy, anticipating the day when customers can gather around the wood-topped tables. Wood accents continue throughout
the room, and large windows take advantage of the building’s southern and western exposures. The black material cloaking the vaulted ceiling keeps the attention focused on what’s happening around tables that seat six to eight people and are easily moved together for larger parties. But the success of a taproom, no matter how inviting the atmosphere, hinges on its brew. Above the bar that nearly spans the room’s width, spotlights attached to wood timbers highlight Kishwaukee Brewing Co.’s offerings: blonde, imperial stout, brown ale, pale ale, India pale ale, and pilsner. The IPA and pilsner, as well as the blonde ale, are customers’ favorites, Payson said. “Being a purist,” Payson said, means he hews to traditional techniques, brews beer to its style, uses local ingredients, but is not afraid to innovate. Kishwaukee becomes Woodstock’s third craft brewer to open in less than
two years. ShadowView Brewing, at 2400 Lake Shore Drive along U.S. 14, was the first, featuring a menu of pizza, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers prepared in its own kitchen. Holzlager Brewing, in the Ace Triangle off Route 47, celebrated its first anniversary this past summer, following a business model similar to Kishwaukee, with customers dining on food they carry in or buy from food trucks in the parking lot.
Time to brew
Payson, who grew up in Schaumburg and Cary, began working as an architect in Chicago after graduation. He and his wife, Cara, moved to Seattle after vacationing there. Dan designed high-end homes and five- or six-story mixed-use buildings, while Cara created high-end jewelry. A year after settling in the Pacific Northwest, the 2007 recession hit and the two found themselves out of work.
See BREWERY, Page 14
Presented by: Kim Keefe REALTOR® 110 1/2 N Benton St, Woodstock, IL 60098 815-333-0014 • 815.790.4852 (call or text) Kim@TeamOpenDoors.com
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Owner Dan Payson stands amid the stainless steel brewing equipment in the back of his Kishwaukee Brewing Co., which has been open since late October. The brewery’s name is tied to the local environment near the Kishwaukee River. Customers can pick up six-packs or cases to go, get growlers filled, or sit on the patio. Food can be delivered for free from Antioch Pizza, and the brewery invites a food truck out at least once each week.
Dec. 16-22, 2020
INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER
■ Residence at 319 Becking Ave., Woodstock, was sold by Chicago Land Title Trust Co., Chicago, to Wendy Norris Legare Trust Agreement, Woodstock, for $185,000. ■ Residence at 836 Queen Anne St., Woodstock, was sold by Kris J. Bierman, Woodstock, to Belinda B. Gonzalez, Woodstock, for $162,000. ■ Vacant land, approximately 3.4 acres, at 10702 Country Club Road, Bull Valley, was sold by Stephen A. Taylor, Chicago, to The Jeffrey S. Quoss Trust, Woodstock, for $59,500. ■ Residence at 643 E. Calhoun St., Woodstock, was sold by Rhonda G. Miller As Independent Executor of the Will of Wanita Murphy, Walkerton, N.C., to Alec Van De Walker, Woodstock, for $157,900. ■ Residence at 10711 Bull Valley Road, Bull Valley, was sold by Stephen J. Sobey, Winchester, Tenn., to Krzysztof Rapacz, Bull Valley, for $352,000. ■ Residence at 800 Regina Court, Woodstock, was sold by Jonathan Borre, Gurnee, to The Cynthia M. Borre Revocable Living Trust, Woodstock, for $110,849. ■ Residence at 107 E. Melody Lane, Woodstock, was sold by Dylan Kapp, Knoxville, Tenn., to Francisco Dimas, Woodstock, for $176,000. ■ Residence at 1766 Butterfield Road, Woodstock, was sold by Troy C. Strange, Cherry Valley, to Adam Michael Letendre, Woodstock, for $230,000. ■ Residence at 602 Schubert St., Woodstock, was sold by Jose De Jesus Garcia Rojas, Woodstock, to Sarah C. Jiworsky, Woodstock, for $179,900.
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
Marketplace
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MARKETPLACE
Dec. 16-22, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
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IN BRIEF Liquor permits suspended over COVID-19 violations Niko’s Red Mill Tavern in Woodstock served a two-day suspension of it’s liquor license last week after being found to have violated Woodstock’s 10 a.m. closing time as part of local COVID-19 restrictions. Two other local bars, Benton Street Tap and The Cabin, received fiveday suspension to be served later for serving alcohol past the city’s closing time. Mayor Brian Sager, acting as the city’s liquor commissioner, handed out the suspensions. He said he had considered a 10-day suspension for Niko’s in light of a violation in March that resulted in a six-month probation for violating coronavirus restrictions. Owner Niko Kanakaris said he was unaware of the city’s 10 p.m. closing time, which is more restrictive than state rules that include an 11 p.m. closing. Two Woodstock establishments, Red Mill and D.C. Cobb’s, are among several McHenry County restaurants referred by local officials to the office of state’s attorney for prosecution for violating a state ban on indoor dining. State’s Attorney Patrick Kenneally has announced, however, he won’t enforce that ban. Restrictions imposed by the city of Woodstock allow limited indoor dining with proper distancing of tables and masks for customers and staff.
Air Management Services wins BBB’s Torch Award Air Management Services of Marengo has received a 2020 Better Business Bureau Torch Award. The awards are presented each year to businesses in recognition of their high standards and relationships with customers, employees, and suppliers, according to a news release. Mark Andersen, owner of Air Management Services, said his company had served customers with their HVAC needs for 25 years, including heating, cooling, plumbing, boilers, water heaters, humidifiers, and air cleaners. “Building strong lifetime relationships based on trust and delivery is at the core of how we do business” Andersen said in the release. “We started as a small business in Marengo and have expanded throughout Northern Illinois, primarily based on word of mouth and customer referrals.” For more information, call 815-5681440 or visit airmanservices.com.
INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY KEN FARVER
The patio at Kishwaukee Brewing Co. on Dillard Court, off McConnell Road, seats 55. Customers are encouraged to BYOB – Bring Your Own Blanket – while it’s not possible now to gather inside. Space heaters and the patio’s southern and western exposures warm the seating area.
BREWERY
Continued from Page 13
They stayed busy by brewing batches of beer. “We were home-brewing on our electric stove in our 500-square-foot apartment,” Payson said. They eventually returned to work – Dan as an architect and Cara as manager and bookkeeper for a local cafe and bakery – but continued to brew on the weekends to improve the quality and consistency of their batches. Then Dan realized that brewing was “more fun” than designing buildings. In 2010, he earned his diploma of Brewing Science and Engineering from the American Brewers’ Guild while learning on the job at various breweries in Seattle. When the couple decided that it was time to move back near their families in northern Illinois, Payson worked for breweries in Algonquin and Crystal Lake, with the goal that he and Cara would open their own place.
A year’s project
Kishwaukee’s location, in an industrial park off McConnell Road, came with several advantages, Payson said. He liked the “nice rural road” that leads to the property, which he described as “a beautiful piece of land.”
The beer garden’s southern and western exposures make it “an ideal place to sit outside,” Payson said. Construction started on March 12, just before Illinois’ stay-at-home order due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a scary feeling, Payson said, “just watching all the news.” When Kishwaukee Brewing Co. opened on Oct. 22, Payson said,
“having an empty taproom was not the greatest feeling in the world.” The business is doing what it can to attract customers and keep going until normal times return. The “BYOB” posting on Kishwaukee’s Facebook page means “Bring Your Own Blanket” to sit outside in the beer garden while enjoying brews with friends. Besides on-site consumption, customers can get growlers filled or buy six-packs and cases to go. Payson has partnered with Antioch Pizza, which offers free delivery of pizza and sandwiches to the brewery, and invites a food truck out at least one night during the week. Currently employing seven – with Cara in charge of the bookkeeping, social media, and scheduling – Payson hopes to have 20 people working for him “by this time next year.” Currently packaging two types of beer, Payson wants to up that to six styles in January and get into the local distribution markets in the new year. Looking ahead, Payson said, “I want the full potential of the place we designed and built to come to fruition.” That’s challenging right now, but no more challenging than leaving a career as an architect and becoming a brewer. “We’re going to keep moving forward,” Payson said, “and get through it.”
& PROPERTY SINCE 1943
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MARKETING LIFESTYLES
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Dec. 16-22, 2020
MARKETPLACE
118 N Lincoln St | Elkhorn, WI | $259,900
Lt0 Scotch Bush Rd | Lafayette, WI | $499,000
6500 Pioneer Rd | Ringwood, IL | $1,199,000
Vacant Land | 51 Acres | MLS#1720623 Listing Agent: Rob Edwards | 262.903.0566
3 Beds, 5 Bath | 4,035 sqft | MLS#10934075 Listing Agent: Kim Keefe’s Team Open Doors | 815.790.4852
4 Beds, 2 Bath | 1,400 sqft | MLS#1711133 Listing Agent: Jerry Kroupa | 262.949.3618
Lt0 Lost Nation Rd | La Grange, WI | $299,000
Lt2 Highway NN | Lake Geneva, WI | $440,000
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Lakefront Vacant Land | .55 Acres | MLS#1695264 Listing Agent: Jerry Kroupa | 262.949.3618
Vacant Land | 38.7 Acres | MLS#1696098 Listing Agent: Rob Edwards | 262.903.0566
Listing Agent: Kim Keefe’s Team Open Doors | 815.790.4852
Vacant Land | Zoned E3 | MLS#10903245
815.900.2474 | KEEFEREALESTATE.COM
Dec. 16-22, 2020
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BEHIND OUR MASKS, WE’RE SAYING
THank TH ank you, Woodstock! Thanks — especially to our subscribers and advertising partners — for your loyal support during a difficult year for everyone. Count on us in 2021 as your trusted source of news
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and forceful advocate for our community.
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Trust the Torch
17 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
2020 Yearbook
Dec. 16-22, 2020
2020 YEARBOOK
EDITION
A CHRONOLOGY OF ALL THE NEWS FOR 2020, TOLD IN WORDS AND PICTURES BY THE STAFF OF THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT.
JANUARY
Woodstock started the new year with a 10-cent fee for every plastic or paper bag customers used at the city’s largest retail stores. The fee was suspended in late March as part of a business-friendly package of measures approved by the City Council. In a work session during the first week of the year, the City Council discussed keeping the city pool financially afloat in the face of rising labor costs because of two minimum wage increases scheduled for 2020. As it turned out, the pool never opened as the coronavirus pandemic disrupted much of normal life during the year.
2020 Yearbook
A chronology of all the news from 2019, told in words and pictures from throughout the year by the staff of The Woodstock Independent
After a decade of unsuccessful attempts to find a developer of the former Die Cast factory site north of the Metra depot, the City Council agreed to buy the property for $1.5 million, to be financed with a 20-year bond through the seller, Chicago Trust Co. “Groundhog Day” stars Bill Murray and Stephen Tobolowsky were back in town to reprise their movie roles as part of a Jeep commercial that would air during the Super Bowl and, later, be nominated for an Emmy Award. Woodstock High School expanded its athletic Hall of Fame with the addition of former coach and announcer Jack Darby; 2009 standout quarterback Logan Kunzie; and the 2007 girls cross-country team.
Environmental Defenders of McHenry County, founded in 1970 to preserve and protect the local environment, prepared to celebrate its 50th anniversary with events throughout the year, many of which were canceled by the pandemic. Four proposals for civic and commercial use of a restored and remodeled Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House received their first public airing during a meeting of the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House Advisory Commission. The proposals were submitted by Public House restaurant – already a tenant, Ethereal Confections, Milk House ice cream shop, and the Woodstock Public Library. About 200 people braved below-freezing wind chills to rally on the Woodstock Square as part of the third annual National Women’s March.
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
Actor Stephen Tobolowsky chases Bill Murray during a commerical shoot in Woodstock. Town and Country Restaurant, doing businesses on South Eastwood Drive, opened a second eatery, T&C Bar and Grill, in the former Washington Street Station at 14801 Washington St. on the city’s far west side. Robin Secrest, freshman volleyball coach at Marian Central Catholic High School, was named varsity coach for the 2020 season that subsequently was delayed by COVID-19.
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY LARRY LOUGH
The city of Woodstock bought the former Die Cast/Woodstock Station site for $1.5 million to better control future development.
2020 Yearbook
2020 YEARBOOK
Dec. 16-22, 2020
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FEBRUARY
With Groundhog Day falling on a Sunday amid unseasonably warm weather, Woodstock’s annual Groundhog Days Festival attracted the largest crowd ever. As the sun came up on the final morning of the four-day festival, Woodstock Willie spotted his shadow, foretelling six more weeks of winter. City officials approved an $8 million senior living complex, Cedarhurst of Woodstock, proposed by Dover Development of St. Louis. The 75,000-squarefoot, 83-unit development was planned along the south side of U.S. 14 west of Northwestern Medicine Hospital. Ground was broken in the fall, with a completion date in 2022. Emma Brand was honored for becoming the 12th Woodstock High School girls basketball player to score 1,000 points, hitting that mark with a 3-point basket against the Richmond-Burton Rockets.
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY KEN FARVER
Groundhog Days Festival had its largest crowds ever with Groundhog Day fallling on a Sunday.
S. Eastwood Drive. Owner Pat Haverty, 63, said he planned to retire. The site was taken over by neighbor Murphy’s Flooring. Gavers Automotive, 725 Lake Ave., ended more than 60 years of business. Carlos Bahena and Tony Tamez planned to operate Woodstock Automotive Service at that site. Woodstock High School junior Quinn Cynor earned two top-five medals at the boys state swim meet. He won third in the 200 freestyle and fifth in the 100 backstroke. YEARBOOK PHOTO BY KEN FARVER
Emma Brand holds her 1,000point plaque at Woodstock High School.
Brady Stromquist, Woodstock North High School’s athletic director since 2015, announced he would resign at the end of the school year to become assistant principal at Monmouth Roseville High School. More than $45,000 was raised for the annual Woodstock District 200 Education Foundation during the Groundhog Day Dinner/Auction. Marian Central wrestler Dylan Connell won the 170-pound division in the IHSA Class 2A Individual State Wrestling
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY DAN CHAMNESS
Marian’s Dylan Connell holds up three fingers to indicate his third state wrestling title as the ref raises his hand declaring his win. Tournament, his third state title. Marian’s Elon Rodriguez finished second at 120 pounds. Few people showed up for information sessions about Woodstock’s application for $805,000 in federal funds to establish a pilot program to upgrade neighborhoods between Route 47 and the Square, which would be a model for
redevelopment in other areas of the city. More than 100 people attended a Saturday morning rally on the Square in support of Second Amendment rights and the re-election campaign of President Trump. Liquidation of inventory was underway at Woodstock Farm & Lawn after more than 40 years in business at 2020
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY VICKY LONG
Co-op swimmer Quinn Cynor wears a first-place medal from the Fox Valley Conference meet. He went on to medal at state.
2020 Yearbook Matched with a similar amount from a 2019 increase in the state gasoline tax, the money was earmarked to pay off a 20-year bond that would finance $10 million in local street resurfacing, planned as the beginning of a multiyear program costing $50 million or more to significantly upgrade city streets.
Woodstock’s first effects of the coronavirus pandemic were felt when District 200 announced the cancellation of all international school-sponsored trips over spring break. A parent had been in contact with school officials in late February to ask the status of travel, and trips were canceled the first week of March.
YEARBOOK PHOTO PROVIDED
Linnea Kooistra of Woodstock models one of many face masks she made.
In its second report on the toll of the coronavirus, the Department of Health said on April 5 the county had so far experienced 133 confirmed cases, up 81 from the previous week, and three deaths, two more than the week before. Government bodies were conducting virtual meetings, students were learning remotely, physicians were virtually examining patients, and The Woodstock Independent began a weekly series of book recommendations for isolated citizens as the area was settling in to life during a pandemic.
As city officials struggled with planning activities during the governor’s shelter-in-place order, three high-profile summer events were canceled: Summer in the Park, Gavers Barndance, and Fair Diddley arts festival on the Square.
City officials, mindful that state and federal funding are tied to a community’s population, urged Woodstock residents to make sure they were counted in the 2020 federal census. As the U.S. Census Bureau began soliciting online responses with mailings to all households, the city provided details of the process on its website. Trey Neuhart, a seventh-grader at Creekside Middle School, correctly spelled “zaibatsu” and “zazen” to win the McHenry County Spelling Bee. As concerns about COVID-19 grew, events, programs, and performances throughout Woodstock were postponed in mid-March, with a resumption of activities tentatively scheduled for Monday, April 13. Classes and athletic events also were suspended in District 200 as well as Marian and St. Mary schools. It was the beginning of the disruption of local life that would last throughout the year. In response to the coronavirus concerns, Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued a stayat-home directive through April 30 and ordered the closing of “non-essential” businesses. The “shelter in place” order went into effect at 5 p.m. Saturday, March 21. Voter turnout was less than 24 percent for the March 17 primary election, which had few contests on the ballot. Among the winners was Mark Justen, a funeral director from McHenry who captured the Republican nomination for county coroner in a three-way race. The next week,
YEARBOOK PHOTO PROVIDED
Dr. Vic Khanna conducts a virtual examination of a patient. Justen unexpectedly died. Republicans chose primary runner-up Michael Rein, a Woodstock chiropractor, to fill the ballot vacancy.
Because of the economic downturn associated with the pandemic, the City Council postponed until November the payment of video gambling fees by local bars and restaurants, and the County Board allowed landowners to defer payment of their spring installment of property taxes until Sept. 15.
Public facilities closed as units of government declared a state of emergency, local students were home early from college, and restaurants scrambled to focus their business on take-out and delivery orders. Those were just some of the reactions around Woodstock to the growing concern about the pandemic.
Dordan Manufacturing was making face shields, Phoenix Woodworking was producing hospital cabinetry, and Berry Global was turning out overcaps and closures for food and household cleaning items as local manufacturers addressed new marketplace demands in the age of coronavirus.
Loans of up to $5,000 were offered to local businesses by the City Council through a new program approved during an emergency meeting. The city made $500,000 available at 3 percent interest, with the first payment not due until May 1, 2021.
APRIL
Woodstock’s new fuel tax of 3 cents a gallon went into effect April 1. It was expected to raise about $30,000 a year.
Just months after the Thoughtfulness Shop on Cass Street closed with the retirement of owners Ceal and Ken Schroeder, Janice Ricci Wilcox announced plans to use that space in the Excelsior Block on the Square for a downsized Thoughtfulness Shop, which would share the first floor with a brickand-mortar presence for her online children’s boutique, My Little Bow Peeps.
YEARBOOK PHOTO PROVIDED
Production shifted to face shields at Dordan Manufacturing in Woodstock to meet a demand.
District 200 administrators and Board of Education members gave students and teachers high marks for their rapid and dedicated transition to remote learning after the state’s “shelter in place” order closed schools for the remainder of the academic year.
2020 YEARBOOK
Sheltered Village in Woodstock, a group home for developmentally disabled adults, experienced the deaths of seven residents and one staff member to COVID-19 as the disease became especially lethal in long-term care facilities.
Dec. 16-22, 2020
Mayor Brian Sager was named winner of the Harold Buschkopf Award, the top honor given by the Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry, at its 75th anniversary dinner.
The City Council approved an $8.3 million contract with Plote Construction of Hoffman Estates to resurface more than 19 miles of city streets in 2021. The city had proposed to upgrade nearly 22 miles of streets rated “poor” to “fair” to prevent them from failing, but engineers determined that some targeted segments needed additional work – on road
base or sewers below – before being resurfaced.
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
MARCH
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2020 Yearbook
2020 YEARBOOK
Dec. 16-22, 2020
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MAY
Police Chief John Lieb reported “just a few” violations locally of the state’s coronavirus-inspired “shelter in place” order, saying that complaints involving “a couple” of businesses and civilian issues were handled with a conversation officers had with the violators. Best Western and Flores Banquets of Woodstock were two of the hospitality industry businesses to share in a $14.5 million state emergency grant to help address problems with the effects of COVID-19 on operations. Classic Cinemas Theatre in Woodstock, closed since the governor’s “stay home” order, wasn’t showing movies but decided to open the concession stand in the lobby each day to give movie fans their popcorn and candy fix. Local businesses that missed the first round of federal Payroll Protection Program funds were applying for round two of support to offset some losses in revenue of COVID-19. Among businesses to receive funds in the first round was The Woodstock Independent.
Even with District 200 students meeting remotely rather than in schools, food service employees continued to serve breakfast and lunch five days a week for walkup or curbside pickup by families. Just weeks before the traditional opening of Woodstock Water Works, city officials decided the aquatic center in Emricson Park would not open this year because of the pandemic. Decisions were delayed as to the schedule of other city facilities and activities. To promote local businesses, The Woodstock Independent published a comprehensive list of retailers open for visitors or curbside pickup, and the next week offered a list of local restaurants providing delivery and pickup of orders. Dozens of small businesses received $5,000 loans through a city program that made $500,000 available to help retailers and restaurants affected by the coronavirus. Of 59 applications received in the first few weeks, 53 loans were approved, with funds still available for more businesses.
May’s Memorial Day parade in Woodstock was socially distanced – for people and pooches.
JUNE
With the purchase of vacated grain bins at 313 Short St. for $200,000, the city of Woodstock added 1.02 acres of land. That meant a total of 16.5 acres was under city ownership for future development of the downtown area immediately north of the Square.
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY VICKY LONG
Marian Central Catholic graduate Reagan Kelly moves her tassel after an individual ceremony.
Picnic tables were being repurposed for outside dining at restaurants around Woodstock as city officials anticipated an easing of the state’s mitigation efforts to limit the spread of COVID-19. That easing occurred May 29. The next day, the Farmers Market made its delayed return to the Square after starting its summer season at its winter home, the McHenry County Fairgrounds.
activities resumed in the parking lot; and the library began curbside pickup of materials. By the end of the month, Phase 4 had eased restrictions further, allowing reopening of public buildings and planning for socially distanced City Band concerts on the Square and a July 4 fireworks show in Emricson Park.
Citizens would get to weigh in through a public survey about how District 200 should address its $160 million construction bond debt, the Board of Education decided. Options included a property tax increase, cuts to personnel and programs, use of the district’s $27 million surplus, and extending the payoff by up to eight years – or a combination of those.
Participants in the 43rd annual Woodstock Challenge would cover 43 miles in the pandemic-inspired virtual event, with running, biking, or walking accomplished individually from June 1-30, and results reported online.
Marian Central Catholic High School conducted individualized ceremonies for its 2020 graduates over three days to limit crowd sizes and ensure social distancing in compliance with state mitigation guidelines. Photos of the graduates appeared in a special pull-out section of The Independent.
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
The Woodstock Classic Cinemas marquee tells the sad story.
Real estate agents reported the worst fears of the economic downturn had not been realized in home sales. While the market was described as being “on hold” at the beginning of the pandemic, prices showed a slight increase from March through May.
With the coronavirus making birthday gatherings unwise, drive-by celebrations by family and friends were an acceptable substitute. Trucks from the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District were making up to seven trips a day for such celebrations, causing the program to be suspended because it interfered with “operational readiness.” City officials protested when Woodstock was lumped with Chicago in a state Restore Illinois plan to resume business and social activities based on regional success in limiting the rate of COVID-19 infections.
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY KEN FARVER
Woodstock welcomed Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois plan after having been under the statewide shelter-in-place order since March 29. Good weather beckoned diners outside since indoor dining was still prohibited; some Recreation Center
Nearly $75,000 in grant money from the Community Foundation of McHenry County would get the city started toward establishing an “age friendly” community to meet the needs of the McHenry County 65 and older population. The city’s Plan Commission gave favorable recommendations to two cannabisgrowing operations, with a third to win approval weeks later, as part of the state’s new cannabis law. None, however, had yet been granted a license by the state to start business, and it was considered unlikely more than one would. Antioch Pizza opened a store in the Ace Triangle along Route 47, joining a crowded pizza market in Woodstock.
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY KEN FARVER
Plote Construction of Hoffman Estates won an $8.3 million contract to resurface more than 19 lane miles of Woodstock streets.
21 Jim DeWane cleared out DeWane Studio at 220 Main St., ending the family photography business after 74 years in Woodstock.
As Woodstock residents emerged from the state’s shelter-in-place order, restaurateurs said diners still generally favored outside dining, and hair salons found new business in fixing some haircuts that had been done at home. In a two-part series, The Independent reported on the evolution of Northwestern Medicine Hospital in Woodstock from a full-service facility to specialization in behavioral and rehabilitative services, which involved a $7 million investment in the building and equipment. In special graduation sections ahead of commencement exercises postponed from May, The Independent saluted the 247 members of the Woodstock High School class of 2020 and the 229 at Woodstock North. Valedictorians were Cara Orndahl at WHS and Carter Miller at WNHS. Robert Mickey became athletic director at Woodstock North after seven years of teaching and coaching at WHS. Judi Cameron of Wonder Lake, an instructor of anthropology at McHenry County College, was chosen by peers as the MCC Full-Time Faculty Member of the Year for 2020.
The latest casualty of the coronavirus was the McHenry County Fair, which canceled the annual six-day event. But plans were made for 4-H projects and livestock shows to be held virtually. YEARBOOK PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
Jim DeWane ended the family’s 74-year-old photography business.
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY KEN FARVER
Reuben Delfino Martinez receives his diploma from Woodstock North High School principal Darlea Livengood during an outside graduation ceremony in July, postponed from May because of COVID-19.
Aldi Foods announced plans to build a 20,500-square-foot store on Lake Avenue that would open in 2022. City officials approved zoning variances for a parking lot setback and additional signage that did not comply with local codes.
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY KEN FARVER
Woodstock High School grad Andrew Tillman wears a face mask during July commencement ceremonies.
2020 YEARBOOK
District 200 announced a hybrid learning program that would allow families to choose remote learning or in-school instruction for their students when the academic year started in mid-August. But COVID-19 metrics prevented resumption of classes as all students were involved in eLearning through the end of 2020. Marian and St. Mary Catholic schools chose to begin the year with five days of inschool instruction.
Dec. 16-22, 2020
Mayor Brian Sager organized a series of three forums on Race & Diversity in Woodstock. Several people offered stories of harassment, including one woman who said she was surprised to find racism “bubbling under the surface” in the city. Sager pronounced it was just the beginning of the dialogue.
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
JULY
2020 Yearbook
AUGUST
Fall sports got the green light, but inschool instruction hit red, when the D-200 Board of Education met in two special meetings within a week. In a 5-3 vote, board members decided to begin the school year with remote learning. Three days later, the vote was 7-0 to allow some fall sports – including golf, tennis, and cross-country – to begin under coronavirus-inspired guidelines of the Illinois High School Association. In preparation for the Nov. 3 election, vote-by-mail applications were sent to 155,000 registered voters in McHenry County by the office of County Clerk Joe Tirio. Fearing COVID-19 would suppress the vote, Tirio mailed more applications than required by law, including people who voted in the 2016 presidential election. “I want to make sure people vote,” the Republican clerk said.
2020 YEARBOOK
Dec. 16-22, 2020
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YEARBOOK PHOTO BY LARRY LOUGH
Voting by mail was popular.
In a two-part series, The Independent reported that while drug overdose deaths had increased nationwide, local deaths were on the decline. Officials credited the widespread availability of the antiOD treatment Narcan and a coordinated effort by local law enforcement and social organizations.
2020 Yearbook
SEPTEMBER
RENDERING BY MCC
McHenry County College announced it finally could build a Center for Advanced Technlogy and Innovation. McHenry County College announced plans for a $22 million Center for Advanced Technology and Innovation, thanks to a boost from a $16 million grant from the state’s Rebuild Illinois capital plan. The 41,000-square-foot facility had been on the drawing board for about 15 years, MCC officials said.
the 60-acre clubhouse and course for $550,000, having raised more than $900,000 among 11 members who had plans to improve the facility and boost membership.
With no Democrats filing for county coroner or county auditor, members of the Libertarian Party took advantage of scaled-down petition requirements – caused by COVID-19 -– to fill the ballot vacancies and make sure all county-level offices would have contests in the Nov. 3 election. Long dormant after the last housing project went bankrupt in the housing recession of a decade ago, the former Die Cast factory site north of the Metra depot had a proposal that excited city officials. Pancor Development of Elgin spent weeks in Woodstock exploring the feasibility of its two-phase project of 112 apartments in four- and five-story buildings before presenting the 11-page plan to local officials. Chipotle Mexican Grill and T-Mobile moved into a two-unit commercial building off the Jewel-Osco parking lot as development picked up in the retail center along Route 47. A dentist’s office and restaurant were planned on a nearby parcel.
COVID-19 continued to dominate life in Woodstock. After three students at Marian Central Catholic High School tested positive for the coronavirus, in-school instruction was suspended for two weeks in favor of remote learning. ... The City Council extended the closing of Benton Street north of the Square until the end of October – and later until the end of November – to allow space for outside dining of taverns and restaurants. ... The council declined a suggestion that the city’s business loan program be ended because no applications had been submitted for more than a month. Council members were concerned that the money might help restaurants over the winter when business was expected to dwindle during cold weather. ... The D-200 Board of Education heard more pleas to resume in-school instruction, but board members agreed with many parents and teachers to continue the remote learning plan that was used to start the school year in mid-August. The board decided to make its decisions based on COVID-19 metrics from the Department of Health. ... and the Woodstock Garden Club, citing the pandemic, ended a 20-year tradition of honoring the Garden of the Month to welllandscaped homes each summer. Regulations were relaxed for food trucks in Woodstock as bars and breweries without food service were partnering with the mobile kitchens to feed customers. The City Council was convinced that the trucks were not the threat to sit-down restaurants that caused the regulations to be created years ago.
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY KEN FARVEER
Anne Stebbins as a suffragette urges people to vote.
The Woodstock Independent won the David B. Kramer Sweepstakes Award as the top small nondaily newspaper in Illinois. That was among 16 awards staff members won in an annual contest sponsored by the Illinois Press Association.
Members of Woodstock Country Club, fearing a buyer might make the 104-yearold club into a public golf course, bought
STUDIO GWA RENDERING
Local officials decided on a design for a new Throop Street entrance for the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House.
As most restaurants and retailers struggled amid coronavirus restrictions, local manufacturers reported business was so strong – some in production of goods involved in fighting the pandemic – that they were have trouble finding enough employees.
Woodstock High School’s cross-country boys team also capped an undefeated season with a KRC title. Marian’s boys team captured the East Suburban Catholic Conference championship, and senior Peter Walsdorf finished first individually and later won regional and sectional titles.
For the first time, Woodstock High School was the location for the crosscountry Crosstown Classic against Woodstock North. The WHS Blue Streaks captured both the boys and girls races on the newly created course at the school.
Woodstock experienced “a hot summer in real estate,” one agent observed, as sales and prices were above 2020 numbers as even properties valued at $300,000 and above were moving.
Return to in-class instruction in District 200 was postponed again when numbers on the Health Department’s School Metrics Dashboard failed to meet favorability benchmarks. As officials modified – or canceled – annual fall and winter holiday events, the popular Witches & Wizards of Woodstock became a weeklong virtual event instead of a one-day downtown festival. After a late starting, socially distanced Farmers Market on the Square, the producers market enjoyed great summer weather before making plans to return Oct. 31 to its winter home at the fairgrounds.
Niko’s Red Mill Tavern owner Niko Kanakaris bought the former Colemans Tavern, just down Lake Avenue from Red Mill, with plans to reopen the yetunnamed bar/restaurant by the end of the year. Woodstock native “Ketchup Katie” Ferguson was spending a year as a “hotdogger,” co-piloting a 27-foot Wienermobile around the U.S. in an ongoing promotion for Oscar Mayer. Northwestern Medicine Hospital announced the donation of the former Woodstock Memorial Hospital on South Street to School District 200. The fouracre site could expand the campus of Woodstock High School after demolition of the building by Northwestern. About $200,000 in exterior improvements got underway at the Metra
2020 YEARBOOK
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY KEN FARVER
Christina Betz, deputy director of public works in Glendale, Ariz., was hired to succeed Woodstock Public Works Director Jeff Van Landuyt, whose spring retirement was delayed as the city searched for a successor.
Depot in Woodstock.
YEARBOOK PHOTO PROVIDED
“Ketchup Katie” Ferguson of Woodstock toured the country as a “hotdogger.” YouTube’s “Beyond the Backlot” program had a crew in Woodstock to shoot an episode focused on prominent sites around Woodstock where “Groundhog Day” was filmed 28 years earlier.
OCTOBER
After six months of free rides on the Metra line from Woodstock to Chicago, Union Pacific personnel began collecting fares in the first week of October. The fare waiver was a result of a dispute between Metra and UP, which was concerned about the health and safety of its personnel who collected fares and monitored passengers. Although suicides by veterans had increased nationwide, the incidence in McHenry County had been declining. Credit was given to a strong effort by the county’s Veterans Assistance Commission to check in with veterans considered at risk. Playing a limited schedule of high school sports in the fall season because of COVID-19, the Woodstock co-op golf team finished the season with a perfect 8-0 record and a Kishwaukee River Conference championship.
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY DAVE MACAULAY
Marian’s Peter Walsdorf runs to a first-place finish in the boys 2A regional cross-country race.
Because of the push for early voting and voting by mail for the Nov. 3 election amid the pandemic, The Independent published its Voters Guide twice – on Oct. 7 for early voters and again Oct. 28 for those waiting to cast their ballots. D-200’s survey on options for addressing the district’s $160 million construction
Dec. 16-22, 2020
Outside dining at local restaurants was more popular with many customers than eating inside amid concern about the coronavirus. These folks enjoy a lunch at a table set up in North Benton Street, which was closed at Judd Street until Nov. 30 to try to help restaurants when inside dining was banned or limited.
bond debt attracted 1,570 responses, more than 79 percent of which objected to a significant increase in property taxes. They also preferred an extension of the payoff, even at a cost of million of dollars, and they didn’t like “significant” cuts to staff and programs.
23 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
2020 Yearbook
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY VICKY LONG
Kendall Odea and her parents were among about 50 demonstrators in September who urged in-school instruction to resume.
2020 YEARBOOK
Dec. 16-22, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
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NOVEMBER
2020 Yearbook events. The modified five-day festival will conclude on Groundhog Day Tuesday, Feb. 2, a weekday that is expected to keep crowd numbers down.
Local Democrats and Republicans had something to celebrate from the Nov. 3 election. Democrats picked up three seats on the County Board, and 14th District Congresswoman Lauren Underwood was re-elected – even though McHenry County was the only county she lost. Republican state Rep. Steve Reick won election to a third term, and Mike Buehler unseated County Board Chairman Jack Franks.
When the filing period ended for the 2021 city election, Woodstock was left with no contests on the April 6 ballot. Deputy Mayor Mike Turner was the only candidate to file for mayor, and only three candidates filed for three available council seats: Tom Nierman, Robert Seegers Jr., and incumbent Gordie Tebo.
Woodstock unveiled a $500,000 Restaurant Relief Grant Program to offset some losses suffered by the local hospitality industry during the pandemic. The grants – ranging from $2,500 to $35,000 – went to 26 restaurants and Classic Cinemas Theatre.
DECEMBER
On the suggestion of Mayor Brian Sager, the City Council’s Dec. 15 meeting was expected to include forgiveness of more than 50 emergency business loans the city had made in April.
Unable to make the complimentary trip to Washington, D.C., to tour war memorials, five local Vietnam veterans were recognized with yard signs from Honor Flight Chicago. The veterans were Larry Halbmier, Robert Halvey and Orville Borchardt of Woodstock and Peter Behrns and Leon Dahlberg of Wonder Lake.
COVID-19 cases and deaths were climbing rapidly after Thanksgiving and hospital bed availability fell to under 5 percent for medical-surgical patients and under 15 percent for ICU beds. Because of the pandemic, Ladies Nite Out on the Square was not a one-night event. To keep crowds down, the Chamber of Commerce event was spread out over several Thursday nights.
Woodstock High School junior golfer Luke Trewyn was named player of the year in the Kishwaukee River Conference. With local restaurants generally defying the latest state ban on inside dining, the city of Woodstock rolled out a compromise measure to balance business interests with public safety, allowing some inside dining with proper mask use and spacing of tables, rules the police department would monitor.
Because interest rates on bonds were so low during the economic downturn, the cost of refunding the District 200 construction debt would be $9 million less than expected, officials reported. YEARBOOK PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
Larry Halbmier was among Vietnam vets recognized by Honor Flight. Official election results showed early voting and mailed-in ballots had boosted election turnout Nov. 3 – mostly favoring Democrats – but the 69.64 percentage of registered voters who participated was short of the record 70.22 percent turnout from 2008. Elements of a plan to address the $160 million bond debt of District 200 included use of $25 million of the district’s surplus over five years, extension of the payoff schedule by five years, and use of $700,000 from the current budget year to avoid having to make cuts in personnel or programs. The two-phase plan, which includes no tax increase in the first year, will be re-evaluated after three years.
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY VICKY LONG
Woodstock co-op golfer Luke Trewyn was named Kishwaukee River Conference player of the year.
Woodstock’s annual Christmas parade was held as usual three days after Thanksgiving, but with modifications to ensure spectators could maintain social distancing. The parade wound through Emricson Park and ended at Dean Street School, avoiding its usual route around the Square.
When the calendar of events for Groundhog Days 2021 was announced, among changes because of COVID-19 were the cancellation of the chili cook-off and dinner-dance, along with other food
YEARBOOK PHOTO BY VICKY LONG
The Grinch was the perfect Christmas Parade character for 2020. But at least the annual event took place, with social distancing and a new route.
Community
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Novel coronavirus draws another veil over incidence of domestic violence By Susan W. Murray
NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
The first step in healing homes racked by domestic abuse has lain in exposing the truth – that abuse in a relationship is not a “family matter” or “discipline,” but violence that destroys families and communities. That realization is a fairly recent phenomenon. Partly it came from popular culture with the 1984 movie “The Burning Bed,” based on a true story, in which Farrah Fawcett plays Francine Moran Hughes who, after years of abuse, set fire to the bed in which her husband slept one night, killing him and destroying the house. Eyes opened further during the 1994 O.J. Simpson trial with the revelations of Simpson’s arrests for battering his wife, Nicole, and his ultimately being held responsible, in a civil trial, for her murder and that of her friend Ronald Goldman. It was not until 1974 that the first battered women’s shelter in the United States opened in St. Paul, Minn. Ten years later, Congress passed the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act, which funded shelters and other resources for victims. And 10 years after that, the federal Violence Against Women Act earmarked money for programs to prevent intimate partner violence. According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in four women and one in seven men will experience physical violence by their intimate partner at some point during their lifetimes. As evidence that domestic violence numbers are difficult to pinpoint, the National Criminal Justice Reference Service estimates that 30 percent to 60 percent of intimate partner violence perpetrators also
See VIOLENCE, Page 28
INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER
What’s hiding behind the numbers With the exception of the number of overnight adult clients, the numbers at Turning Point, where domestic violence victims receive services and shelter, are down compared to the previous fiscal year. Executive Director Jane Farmer said that the pandemic had made it more difficult for victims to seek assistance and had placed some constraints on the help that Turning Point can offer. 7/1/18 - 6/30/19 7/1/19 - 6/30/20 Number of clients Clients under age 5 Crisis Calls Orders of Protection Overnight clients Nights of protection
1,648 35 2,050 571 55 adults, 46 children 3,461
1,441 28 1,552 510 64 adults, 41 children 3,320
Emergency room visits in domestic-related incidents While visits to emergency rooms for domestic-related incidents are down in 2020, the decrease might be due to fear of reporting when an abuser is likely to still be at home or a fear of possibly being exposed to COVID-19 in the ER. Woodstock Huntley McHenry Total
2019 38 32 46 116
2020 33 15 41 89
projected 2020 36 18 45 99
COMMUNITY
Rachelle Barmann, coordinator of the Children’s Domestic Violence Program at Turning Point, is also an art therapist. In the year ending June 30, Turning Point sheltered 41 children overnight, 28 of them under the age of 5. On the tree trunk behind Barmann are the words: “We can do hard things.” Entwined in the branches is the message: “Adversity produces seeds of greatness.”
Dec. 16-22, 2020
‘Really hard to know what to do’
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN A PANDEMIC: FIRST OF A TWO-PART SERIES
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COMMUNITY
Dec. 16-22, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
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Between Lake Ave. & Rt. 14
Woodstock • 815-338-8900
www.blueribbonmillwork.com
PICTURE THIS
The Woodstock Public Library, designed by architect Bill Fyfe, was built in 1957. The tree artwork and large logo on the window relate to Woodstock’s selection as All-America City in 1964.
Give the gift of history! Half off new individual and family gift memberships to the McHenry County Historical Society between now and December 22. Visit gothistory.org or call 815-923-2267 for more information.
Don Peasley Photo Collection, McHenry County Historical Society
Kitchens • Baths • Windows • Millwork • Lumber • Doors 815-338-0075 • 1101 Lake Ave., Woodstock • www.woodstocklumber.com
27 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
S T U D I O 2 0 1 5 J E W E L E R S . . . is now S T U D I O D J E W E L E R S !
Dec. 16-22, 2020
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Also open the historic Square for open onnow Sthe T on Uhistoric D I O 2Woodstock 0 1Woodstock 5 J E WSquare. E L E R S . . . is now S T U D I O D J E W E L E R S ! the perfect holiday gift.
Studio D Jewelers | 118 N. Benton Street | Woodstock, Illinois | 815.337.2015 | studiodjewelers.com
STUDIO D JEWELERS During the month of December, visit us at our Catalpa store or our new location now open on the historic Woodstock Square. Studio D Jewelers | 118 N. Benton Street | Woodstock, Illinois | 815.337.2015 | studiodjewelers.com
COMMUNITY
STUDIO D JEWELERS
COMMUNITY
Dec. 16-22, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
28
VIOLENCE
Jane Farmer, Turning Point’s executive director, sorts through food items for the organization’s pantry. “Anything a person needs in her house, we need here,” Farmer said. Because of the pandemic, events that previously had raised funds for Turning Point were canceled this year.
Continued from Page 25
abuse children in the household. Today, the COVID-19 pandemic has drawn another veil over domestic violence. Local numbers are both up and down, with victims’ advocates and members of law enforcement scrambling to uncover, address, and explain the situation.
Turning Point
If 2020 were a normal year, Jane Farmer, the executive director of Turning Point, a domestic abuse agency in Woodstock, would find encouragement in her organization’s numbers. The agency and its shelter has provided services for fewer clients, including children under age 5; has had fewer crisis calls; has written fewer orders of protection; and has hosted fewer overnight clients. But in this abnormal year, people working from home and children learning from home to keep them safe from the virus is more dangerous for domestic violence victims. Stay-at-home “is really difficult for our clients,” Farmer said. Two stresses underlying domestic violence are exacerbated in the current environment – job loss and loss of income.
INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER
The need for homeschooling supervision and the inability to send children out to play with others are two new stresses. If the abuser is out-of-work or his hours have been reduced, Farmer said, “[his wife] can’t make a phone call, and she’s trying to homeschool.” “It’s really hard for women [and men] who are in an impossible situation to know what to do,” Farmer said.
Emergency room visits
Likewise, local emergency rooms
are seeing a decline in visits from domestic-related incidents. Michelle Green, Northwestern Medicine’s media relations director, reported that as of the end of November, the healthcare system’s three area hospitals had treated 89 visitors for injuries resulting from domestic abuse. If projected out through December, emergency rooms in Woodstock, Huntley, and McHenry will see 99 visitors because of domestic-related incidents. But in 2019, the total number was
116. Are there, for some reason, fewer domestic disputes that result in injury? Are victims unable to go to the hospital because the abuser is always at home? Are people avoiding the emergency room because of fears of exposure to COVID-19? Unfortunately, there’s no clear answer.
Help available 24/7
Farmer said she wants people to know Turning Point operates just like the police department or the fire department. “Victims can call Turning Point at 815-338-8081, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 366 days a year,” Farmer said. “During the day, they can show up at the door at 11019 U.S. 14.” And while business at the McHenry County courthouse is limited, emergency orders of protection, stalking no-contact orders, and civil no-contact orders may be filed with the Court between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on days when the Judicial Center is open for business. People seeking those orders may contact Turning Point at 815334-4624, and representatives will assist with completing the petition, aid in electronically filing the documents, and provide direction on how to access a judge remotely.
June 10-16, 2020
Woodstock Woodstock Woodstock
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D-200 wants you
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MARKETPLACE
Local food trucks find hungry customers during shutdown
PAGE 19
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INDEX
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23
25
St., 671 E. Calhoun 60098 Woodstock, IL 8-8040 Phone: 815-33 Fax: 815-338-8177 Thewoodstock om independent.c
PAGE 8
PHOTO BY KEN
FARVER
had been for a Saturday as it 6 t, was as busy OpiniOn use of coronavirus of Cass Stree time this season. Beca 4 Obituaries 9 by this photo rounds. It will nced the first schOOls nry County 6Fairg stock, as evide return the Square for OpiniOn et a&e ed to at11its winter home at the McHe Downtown Wood Farmers Mark et had ay and Saturday. stayed Tuesd each while when the 8 chOOls s mark open 13 producers uleaceof being Marketpl concerns, the normal summer sched 11 a&e 19 cOMMunity now resume the
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SUMMER’S START
20 students in District 200 receive 2020 PRIDE awards
linked Project Front Line workers restaurants with
4
11
PRIDE PROUD
PAGE 16
SCHOOLS
ed with Finch Farm reviv lavender sweet scent of
PAGE 14
INDEX
COMMUNITY
MARKETPLACE
COMMUNITY
Woodstock prepares for more activity under Phase 4
BUSY MORNING
24
26
grow downtown Marketplace
13
cOMMunity
16
ahon Thomas
INDEPENDENT
PHOTO BY KEN
FARVER
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busin calendar in that 20 area. 28 CharlotteeMcM said rated homes and own rd deco Stelfo30 seller,and daughter ger the ahon ent, INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI more than elevat McM 22 ofRosco classified or City Mana the sale agreem route Melissalish strucUnder Pomenade nOtices 29 the former grain dayerm public demostockallPride willWood By Larry Lough the site of 24 puzzles first the On long-t of summer 2020, umbrellas protected diners at The Double Yolk Café from sun early in the DeLong Co., city’s the ENT.COM of 30 TOCKINDEPEND was a “key piece” and t.from raindrops later as the Woodstock Farmers Market finished its third week on the Square. spOrts morning LARRY@THE WOODS tures on the site. developmen 25 town Anderson, thepublic nOtices tt down Garre for to betplan According in a much pmic Develop26 the city spOrts “This puts simithe is right for develo - city director of Econo and of , l time will limbs contro the of city g When of havin n bones, loss acres means the the of town area, Wood e ter position c Crash broke ment, that 1.02 s. Just days before iof the area north ment of the down place to develop. north of the Squar nal Major Traffi lar critical injurie Regio parcel,” he said County a big , Page 2 will have 16.5 acres tially be developed”Lough , MCAT invest vedThe stock will have . in Woodstock See DOWNTOWN The By Larry involvil last week appro h could poten will M Assistance Team him on the scene of wreck “whic stock The City Counc Grove accident DEPENDENT.CO d grainWood acres the city TOCKIN a Spring blank keptLough g Woodstock gated of the vacate By Larry g more meeting July 21, depending t than 17 That’s what to council’s as hittin a t whocanvas LARRY@THE WOODS kind ofcyclis amon survived enden more than “It’s 000.Indep the purchase Independent nt June 4 for ing a motor Short St. for $200, WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM St., fatal accide ninewhether to do anything different,” he on what members hear from the public aLARRY@THE of a s, silo site at 313 team a 671 E. Calhoun seriou g nt is St., 671 E. Calhoun a tree. accide – including restaurants – between now he received eight hours, leadin five city policesaid. When a traffic Woodstock, Woodstock, IL on information from IL 60098 rs Mike Based MCAT. and then. moreFire/ for stock discussing the Turner urgedcol- After Mayor Deputy police office Wood the issue call goes out to Phone: 60098 investigated the s injury or 815-338-8040 4 from tedTurner said the issue was raised s who a seriou June tment activa be agreed members council hour, an than “be to Council to City Woodstock the ard depar (Wash has 120 “It ct, Pritch Phone: Fax: 815-338-8177 e Distri Pritchard of the creative” 14 and Route 3 Benton Street bars about the Que Rescu Rob – for now. See MCAT, Pageby nothing changes to to do considering lision atinU.S. death,” said Sgt. Thewoodstock 815-338-8040 Department. to t The issue was a discussion-only Pasta truck being parked on the street food ).truck regulations city’s Street hastheington Woodstock Policeindependent.com us injury” mean Fax: 815-338-8177 Pritchard, 50, ard said “serio from brick-and- item on the agenda for last week’s outside Ortmann’s Red Iron Tavern at complaints Pritch nryaddress Since May 2019, Thewoodstock of the McHe mortar restaurants about their mobile council meeting. Changes to the city’s Church and Clay streets. om been commander independent.c 2012 ordinance could be made at the See FOOD TRUCKS, Page 2 competitors. puzzles
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First Presbyterian Church of Woodstock
Join us virtually for Worship
December 20 9:30 am Virtual Christmas Program Christmas Eve Virtual Candlelight Service 4:00 pm
All services are available after posted times
Christmas Clearing House distribution this Saturday Staff Report
NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Sophie Wicker (left) and Lauryn Hahn tape batteries to boxes of toys that will be part of the annual Christmas Clearing House distribution of holiday food and gift bags on Saturday. Volunteer drivers are needed to make deliveries to homes in Woodstock and Wonder Lake as part of the Rotary Club project. at a time and asked to return to make more deliveries. Drivers will also be asked to remain in their cars and
Grace Lutheran Church Woodstock
allow the warehouse volunteers to load their cars for them. “We wanted to limit the number of
ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH
Longest Night
Monday, December 21st at 7:00pm (Livestream)
Christmas Worship Services Full Christmas Eve Service
Christmas Eve Services
(Online)
4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Brief Parking Lot Services
401 St. Johns Road • Woodstock, IL 60098
(December 24th at 4:30 pm & 7:30 pm) Please check Grace Lutheran Church’s website for more information www.gracewoodstock.org
Grace Lutheran Church, ELCA 1300 Kishwaukee Valley Road, Woodstock 815-338-0554 — www.gracewoodstock.org
For everyone’s safety: 6 ft social distancing is practiced Temperatures will be taken upon entering the church Mask are mandatory (mask & gloves are available) Fogging and disinfecting is done prior to services for COVID safety
(815) 338-5159 • stjohnswoodstock.com
COMMUNITY
INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER
Dec. 16-22, 2020
Nearly 1,100 families and seniors in Woodstock and parts of Wonder Lake will get food and gift bags delivered to their homes this weekend – if Christmas Clearing House can find enough volunteer drivers. In its 51st year, Christmas Clearing House is the Rotary Club of Woodstock’s largest project with hundreds of volunteers and community partners pulling together to deliver holiday food baskets and toys to families and seniors in Woodstock. “In light of COVID-19 and everyone’s safety, we made some adjustments to the logistics for Christmas Clearing House,” John Buckley, chairman for CCH, said in a news release. “We are really needing the community to help with the deliveries.” Drivers will be given two deliveries
volunteers needed to sort and pack toys and to work the warehouse on delivery day,” Buckley said. “Because we are reducing the number of deliveries per run, we need drivers to keep coming back. All of these measures are about public safety and efficiencies.” Deliveries will begin at 8 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, and end when the last one is made. The CCH warehouse is at 1191 Lake Ave., Woodstock. This year, the Rotary Club is not asking the community for volunteers to help with the food and toy packing. For more information, interested volunteers should check woodstockcares.com or the Rotary Club’s Facebook page – facebook.com/ rotaryclubofwoodstock The local Rotary Club was founded in 1967. Rotary is an organization of business and professional leaders united worldwide, who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. The club’s local projects include Blessings in a Backpack to feed the food insecure and grants to local nonprofits.
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
Drivers needed to deliver holiday cheer
29
COMMUNITY
Dec. 16-22, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
30
Woodstock’s Ladies Nite Out is a favorite annual event. Many stores will offer evening shopping hours this Thursday, December 17th till 7 PM. We hope you will support our small businesses and come out to Woodstock for your holiday shopping! The traditional Ladies Nite Out giveaways you love are free to all who come out to shop! Bags are back and sponsored by T-Mobile, with hand sanitizer. Studio D Jewelers sponsored masks, and Habitat for Humanity ReStore sponsored souvenir cups. Bags can be picked up between 4 and 7 PM on the patio of The Public House. Sign up at The Thoughtfulness Shop for their raffle basket. All health protocols will be followed to provide a safe shopping experience.
Get your clues and game card at www.woodstockchamber.com
Get your essential holiday shopping done, grab some carryout and support our local businesses! They need your support now more than ever before!
Complete your card by December 21st Winners announced on the Chamber Facebook page
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Dec. 16-22, 2020
A complete holiday dinner is available for many local residents in need because of the generosity of a local Woodstock family and Woodstock Country Club. The family chooses to remain anonymous. The meals – turkey, vegetables,stuffing, gravy, and more – are offered to persons most in need of help at this difficult time, including seniors, the homeless, the unemployed, and people who live alone. Individual Christmas dinners will be available for pickup from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, at the Dorr
Township parking lot, 1039 Lake St., in Woodstock. The 75 meals will be prepared and assembled at the country club and come with instructions for easy serving. Reservations, which are required because of the limited quantity, can be made by calling the Woodstock Food Pantry, 815-338-0125, or the township office, 815-337-0375. Leave a name, phone number, and request one or two meals. “With so many people out of work, seniors living alone and many people far away from family members, this is a year to go out of your way to help others,” a representative of the donor family said.
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
IN BRIEF Complete holiday dinner offered for pickup Dec. 24
COMMUNITY
STUDENT OF THE WEEK MADDY SRAL
SPONSORED BY
Maddy Sral is a sophomore at Woodstock High School. She is the daughter of Pete and Diane Sral, Woodstock. “Maddy has completely embraced the opportunity of singing in choir during remote learning. She is actively involved in both Bella Voce and 0 Hour, leading others by example through her excellent work ethic and passion for choir. She regularly records her voice in Soundtrap to show her learning and has a positive attitude about the unique challenges of singing alone from home. She went above and beyond expectations by auditioning for ILMEA earlier this year, and she will be singing in the Virtual Variety Cabaret later this semester. Keep up the good work, Maddy!”said Mr. Joswiak. Maddy is on honor roll. She participates in theater, and she is the class representative for choir. Outside of school, she has helped at the food pantry with her church. When asked who inspires her, Maddy said, “My voice teacher. Without him, I wouldn’t have as many accomplishments as I do.” When asked what makes her feel successful, Maddy said, “With music being my biggest passion, making madrigals and jazz choir my freshman year and ILMEA District Choir sophomore year are a couple of my achievements that give me hope for my future.”
111 E. Van Buren Street Woodstock, IL 60098 (815) 206-5967 readbetweenthelynes.com
Dec. 16-22, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
32
Happenings
•••PLEASE CHECK WITH SPONSORS OR VENUES ABOUT CANCELLATIONS OR POSTPONEMENTS OF EVENTS•••
calendar
ONGOING
CHRISTMAS TREE WALK
Woodstock Opera House 121 Van Buren St. Through Dec. 23 Friday - Sunday 1 to 4 p.m. Monday - Thursday 5 to 8 p.m.
COMMUNITY
VISIT SANTA
Stage Left Café 124 Van Buren St. Through Dec. 23 Friday - Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. Monday - Thursday 5 to 7:30 p.m. Visit WoodstockOperaHouse.com for free timed tickets.
15 TUESDAY
INTERVIEW VIRTUAL WORKSHOP
McHenry Co. Workforce Center 1 to 2:30 p.m. Visit Mchenrycountyworkforce. com to register.
WOODSTOCK CITY COUNCIL MEETING Woodstock City Hall 121 W. Calhoun St. 7 p.m.
16 WEDN ESDAY
WOODSTOCK WEDNESDAY Woodstock Folk Festival “Tricia Alexander’s 35th Annual Trishmas Concert” (virtual) 7 p.m. woodstockfolkfestival.org
17 THURSDAY
HISPANIC CONNECTIONS MEETING Woodstock Chamber of Commerce
Noon 127 E. Calhoun St.
STRESS MANAGEMENT VIRTUAL WORKSHOP
McHenry Co. Workforce Center 1 to 2:30 p.m. Visit Mchenrycountyworkforce. com to register.
LADIES NIGHT OUT ON THE SQUARE
Woodstock Square 4 to 7 p.m. woodstockilchamber.wellattended. com/events/ladies-nite-out
WOODSTOCK FIRE/ RESCUE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING 7 p.m. wfrd.org
18 FRIDAY
MICROSOFT EXCEL COMPUTER CLASS
McHenry Co. Workforce Center 10 to 11 a.m. Visit Mchenrycountyworkforce. com to register.
JAZZ NIGHT
Stage Left Café 124 Van Buren St. 8 p.m. Tune in on Facebook at Woodstock Opera House.
19 SATURDAY
CHRISTMAS CLEARING HOUSE DELIVERY DAY 1191 Lake Ave. 8 a.m.
WINTER MARKET AT THE FAIRGROUNDS McHenry County Fairgrounds Building D
11900 Country Club Road 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org
YONDER PRAIRIE WORKDAY
1150 S. Rose Farm Road 9 a.m. to noon conservemc.org
CLARA’S DREAM - A ONE HOUR NUTCRACKER
2 p.m. Live-stream Tickets $18, must be purchased in advance woodstockoperahouse.com
20 SUNDAY YONDER PRAIRIE WORKDAY
1150 S. Rose Farm Road 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. conservemc.org
To submit calendar items, email pr@thewoodstockindependent.com Woodstock Folk Festival Small Potatoes concert (virtual) 7 p.m. woodstockfolkfestival.org
16 SATURDAY
24 THURSDAY
McHenry County Fairgrounds Building D 11900 Country Club Road 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org
CHRISTMAS EVE
25 FRIDAY CHRISTMAS DAY
31 THURSDAY NEW YEAR’S EVE JANUARY
1 FRIDAY NEW YEAR’S DAY
2 SATURDAY
HEARTHSTONE COMMUNI- WINTER MARKET AT THE TIES HOLIDAY CAR PARADE FAIRGROUNDS 1:45 p.m. - Staging at McHenry Co. Courthouse 2200 N. Seminary Ave. 2 p.m. parade through Heartstone Communities To participage, email AlbrightC@ hearthstonewoodstock.org
McHenry County Fairgrounds Building D 11900 Country Club Road 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org
21 MONDAY
PRIDE MEETING
FIRST DAY OF WINTER WINTER BREAK
19 TUESDAY
WOODSTOCK CITY COUNCIL 7 p.m. Onlline woodstockil.gov
21 THURSDAY
MURDER & MAYHEM BOOK CLUB Woodstock Public Library 414 W. Judd St. 7 to 8 p.m. woodstockpubliclibrary.org
28 THURSDAY WOODSTOCK FIRE/ RESCUE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
11 MONDAY
7 p.m. wfrd.org
Woodstock Chamber of Commerce 6 p.m. 127 E. Calhoun St.
WELCOMING OF THE GROUNDHOG
Through Jan. 1 for Woodstock School District 200, Marian Central Catholic High School and St. Mary Catholic School
12 TUESDAY
23 WEDN ESDAY
7 p.m. Live-stream woodstockschools.org
WOODSTOCK WEDNESDAY
WINTER MARKET AT THE FAIRGROUNDS
DISTRICT 200 SCHOOL BOARD OF EDUCATION
Resurrection Catholic Church
29 FRIDAY
Woodstock Opera House 121 W. Van Buren 6 p.m. woodstockgroundhog.org
GROUNDHOG TRIVIA
Woodstock Opera House 121 W. Van Buren 6:30 p.m. woodstockgroundhog.org
2918 South Country Club Road Woodstock, IL 60098
We welcome all to join us at our Mass times: Saturday at 5:00 pm & Sunday at 8:00 am and 10:30 am.
We, the members of the Resurrection Catholic Church, are a prayerful, loving community formed by the Holy Spirit, striving to be a sign of the Gospel values of Jesus Christ: justice, truth and love.
■ BAHA’I COMMUNITY OF WOODSTOCK Gatherings are open to the public the second Saturday of each month. For information: 815-337-0126 woodstock.bahais@gmail.com ■ BLUE LOTUS TEMPLE & MEDITATION CENTER 221 Dean St. • 815-337-7378 Meditation: 10 a.m. Tuesday, Saturday; 7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday ■ CASA DE BENDICION 8015 Ridgefield Road, Crystal Lake (Crystal Lake Christian Church) Worship: 1 p.m. Sunday, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday ■ CHRIST LIFE 13614 W. Jackson St. • 815-338-4934 Worship: 10:30 a.m. Sunday ■ COVENANT REFORMED BAPTIST CHURCH 4609 Greenwood Road P.O. Box 463 • 815-575-9612 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ EDEN BAPTIST 1903 N. Seminary Ave. • 815-814-7847 Worship: 3 p.m. Sunday (Spanish) ■ FIRST CHURCH OF CHRIST, SCIENTIST 111 W. South St. • 815-338-2731 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ FIRST PRESBYTERIAN 2018 N. Route 47 • 815-338-2627 Virtual worship: 9:30 a.m. Sunday ■ FIRST UNITED METHODIST 201 W. South St. • 815-338-3310 fumcwoodstock.org Worship: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Sunday school for children 9:45 a.m. ■ FREE METHODIST 934 N. Seminary Ave. • 815-338-3180 Worship: 10:30 a.m. ■ GOOD NEWS CHURCH Meeting at Dorr Township Community Room, 1039 Lake Ave. 815-575-9224 goodnewswoodstock.org Worship: 10:15 a.m. Sunday ■ GRACE FELLOWSHIP 200 Cairns Court • gfchurch.org Worship: 9 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday ■ GRACE LUTHERAN 1300 Kishwaukee Valley Road 815-338-0554 Worship: Videos on website each weekend; parking lot services at 9 a.m., listen on 89.3 FM ■ HOUSE OF BLESSING 2018 N. Route 47 (First Presbyterian Church building) cbhbfil413.com Worship: 1 p.m. Sunday ■ JEWISH REFORMED
CONGREGATION TIKKUN OLAM 503 W. Jackson St. (St. Ann’s Episcopal Church building) Call 815-455-9236 or email tikkunolam@ hotmail.com for service information. n McHENRY COUNTY JEWISH CONGREGATION 8617 Ridgefield Road, Crystal Lake 815-455-1810 Worship: 7 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m. Saturday n NEW LIFE CHRISTIAN CENTER 5115 Dean St. • 815-337-4673 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ RESURRECTION CATHOLIC 2918 S. Country Club Road 815-338-7330 Worship: 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday; 5 p.m. Saturday; 8:30 a.m. weekdays ■ ST. ANN’S EPISCOPAL 503 W. Jackson St. • 815-338-0950 Worship: 10 a.m. online ■ ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN 401 St. John’s Road • 815-338-5159 Worship: 9 a.m. Sunday ■ ST. MARY CATHOLIC 313 N. Tryon St. • 815-338-3377 Worship: Daily Mass, 12:30 p.m., no registration required. Weekend Mass schedule (registration required): Saturday, 4:30 p.m. (English), 6:30 p.m. (Spanish); Sunday, 8:30 a.m. (English), 10:30 a.m. (English), 12 :30 p.m. (Spanish); Candlelight Mass, 8:30 p.m., last Saturday of the month. Confession, Monday and Wednesday, 4 p.m. ■ THE BRIDGE CHRISTIAN 2620 Bridge Lane • 815-496-0548 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 2016 Hartland Road • 815-334-1703 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ THE VINE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 1132 N. Madison St. • 815-338-3380 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ UNITY SPIRITUAL CENTER 225 W. Calhoun St. • 815-337-3534 unitywoodstock.org Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ UPPER FOX VALLEY QUAKER MEETING 4614 Pioneer Road, McHenry 815-385-8512 Discussion and singing, 9 a.m. Sunday Worship, 10 a.m., fellowship, 11 a.m. Sunday ■ WOODSTOCK ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1201 Dean St.• 815-338-1316 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ WOODSTOCK BIBLE CHURCH 118 Benton St. Worship: 10:30 a..m. Sunday
■ Several members of the Bull Valley Zoning Board of Appeals challenged Village Board President Jean Dooley’s appointment of her husband, Ray, as ZBA chairman. Later, the ZBA elected Brian Miller to that post.
30 years ago – 1990
25 years ago – 1995
■ Mike Palmquist, Cav Peterson, Mari Steinbach, and Cheryl Wormley were planning the 1996 Groundhog Day festivities. ■ Mike Lohmeier, a Woodstock High School senior, was named to the AllState Academic Class 4A football team. He was No. 1 in his class and led the Blue Streaks in sacks.
20 years ago – 2000
■ Jessie Rigby, 12, designed and produced the latest in her annual angel ornaments. The 2000 angel, named for her neighbor Joe Comella, who had died in October, included Joe’s signature bow tie. ■ Bridget Vogrinc, 16, a WHS junior, won the VFW Voice of Democracy Essay Contest. ■ Woodstock Christmas Clearing House organizers said the charity would serve about 600 families, a 20 percent increase over the previous year.
15 years ago – 2005
■ Susan Murray, Woodstock, sent a letter to Woodstock Mayor Brian Sager, asking whether the city would be interested in starting an outdoor “Family Film Festival.” As a result, the city began looking into hosting outdoor movie nights at Emricson Park. ■ The Woodstock City Council approved an increase to the cost of a season pass for Woodstock Water Works. Rates went up by $5 a person for residents and $10 a person for nonresidents.
10 years ago – 2010
■ Woodstock School District 200 Superintendent Ellyn Wrzeski notified staff members of her decision to delay her retirement. ■ After three hours of discussion, the Woodstock Plan Commission recommended 21 amendments to 50 conditions of a special-use permit for gravel mining and extraction at a Route 14 location earmarked as a possible future baseball stadium, Metra station,
33 and McHenry County Fairgrounds.
5 years ago – 2015
■ The former firehouse at the northeast corner of Throop and South streets was opening to serve the homeless people in the area. Sue Rose, community services director of the McHenry County Housing Authority, said the center would be open through the end of March to provide a place for people to shower, use the bathroom, rest, and receive supportive services. ■ D-200 was one of 15 districts in Illinois honored by the College Board with placement on its annual AP District Honor Roll. The recognition was given to districts that increased access to Advanced Placement courses for a greater number of students while maintaining or improving student scoring on AP exams. ■ After the village of Lakewood declined to renew its fire/rescue contract with Woodstock Fire/Rescue District, layoffs were in the offing. “Unfortunately, our non-sworn Lakewood personnel may have to be laid off, or we may have to reduce their hours,” WFRD Chief Ralph Webster said.
1 year ago – 2019
■ Three D-200 Lego robotics teams qualified for state competition based on their performances in a 16-team middle school tournament hosted by Northwood Middle School. The two teams that advanced from Northwood were Greenhouse Gang and Phish Phriends. Creekside Middle School’s P.A.R.K. team also advanced. “We are so proud of the kids’ creativity and teamwork, which propelled their success,” coach Gigi Carlson said. ■ The Sewing Circle of Grace Lutheran Church completed its quilt work for the year – delivering 10 to area nursing homes. Member Marge Burk reported the group had given out 123 lap quilts, 46 crocheted lap quilts, 145 small pillows, 296 walker bags, 24 bibs, 72 poly bags, and 24 neck pillows to local nursing home residents, plus 203 quilts for Lutheran World Relief. ■ Cooper Adams, a WHS junior, was named Athlete of the Week. Adams took first in the Ted DeRousse Wrestling Tournament in Antioch, going 10-0. He took third in the Tom DuBois tournament in Richmond. It was his second year as team captain.
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which is due on or before 60 days after the expiration of the one-year anniversary of this Order and annually thereafter. ENTER: Michael J. Chmiel, Judge 11/18/2020 Name: O’Donnell & Associates, Ltd. Attorney for co-executors 1515 E. Woodfield Rd., Ste. 112 Schaumburg, IL 60173 (847) 413-9500 /s/KATHERINE M KEEFE (Clerk of the Circuit Court) (Published in The Woodstock Independent December 9, 2020, December 16, 2020)L11114
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice of Self Storage Sale The Storage Space LLC, 945 Dieckman St., P O Box 1873, Woodstock, IL. 60098, must receive the delinquent amount of $530.00 for rental of unit #18 at 945 Dieckman St., Woodstock, IL. 60098, name Niel Krepel. Or contents will be sold (no auction) or disposed of on 12/28/20 at 10:00 a.m. at 945 Dieckman St., Woodstock, IL. 60098. Contents: Leather recliner, Chair, Leather couch, Fan, Books, Garden decorations, Clothes hangers, Mirror, Pictures, Solar system poster, Solar lights, Miscellaneous household items, and Bags & boxes contents unknown and other general household. (Published in The Woodstock Independent December 9, 2020, December 16, 2020)L11116
PUBLIC NOTICE
Get the best floors under one roof for the holidays! IN STOC K CARP ET AND VIN YL READ FOR INS Y TALL BE F O R E THE HO LIDAYS
Hours: Mon-Thurs 10-6, Fri. 10-5, Sat 10-4 Sundays by appointment only • Contractors Welcome! 2020 S. Eastwood Drive (Rt. 47) • Woodstock, IL • 815-334-5985
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Notice of Self Storage Sale Please take notice Red Dot Storage 78 - Woodstock located at 740 Washington Rd., Woodstock, IL 60098 intends to hold an auction of the goods stored in the following unit in default for non-payment of rent. The sale will occur as an online auction via www. storageauctions.com on 1/5/2021 at 9:30 AM. Unless stated otherwise the description of the contents are
household goods and furnishings. Brandon Rickert Unit #004; Louie Lopez Unit #177. All property is being stored at the above self-storage facility. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply. See manager for details. (Published in The Woodstock Independent December 16, 2020) L11118
PUBLIC NOTICE
ASSUMED NAME Public Notice is hereby given that on DECEMBER 7, 2020 An Assumed Name Business Certificate was filed in the Office of the County Clerk in McHenry County, IL under the following business name and address, and setting forth the names and addresses of all persons owning, conducting and transacting business known as BRUNDOLPH RODS located at 9112 CAROL LANE, SPRING GROVE, IL 60081. Owner Name & Address: TODD RADEK 9112 CAROL LANE, SPRING GROVE, IL 60081. Dated: DECEMBER 7, 2020 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk) (Published in The Woodstock Independent December 16, 2020) L11119
Happy Holidays! We thank you for your continued business!
www.frisbielohmeyer.com 815-338-3265 101 N. Throop St. Woodstock IL 60098
35
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ASSUMED NAME Public Notice is hereby given that
on DECEMBER 1, 2020 An Assumed Name Business Certificate was filed in the Office of the County Clerk in McHenry County, IL under the following business name and address, and setting forth the names and addresses of all persons owning, conducting and transacting business known as LILY RAYNE BEAUTY BAR located at 103 E. JUDD ST., WOODSTOCK, IL 60098. Owner Name & Address: KYLIE SCHULEMANN 1 W. PADDOCK ST., CRYSTAL LAKE, IL 60014. Dated: DECEMBER 1, 2020 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk) (Published in The Woodstock Independent December 9, 2020, December 16, 2020)L11117
Dec. 16-22, 2020
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice of Self Storage Sale The Storage Space LLC, 945 Dieckman St., P O Box 1873, Woodstock, IL. 60098, must receive the delinquent amount of $530.00 for rental of unit #66 at 945 Dieckman St., Woodstock, IL. 60098, name Niel Krepel. Or contents will be sold (no auction) or disposed of on 12/28/20 at 10:00 a.m. at 945 Dieckman St., Woodstock, IL. 60098. Contents: Wood bed frame, Mattress, Vacuum, Toy dump truck, Sterilite tubs, Cabinets, Plywood counter top, Miscellaneous household items, and
Bags & boxes contents unknown and other general household. (Published in The Woodstock Independent December 9, 2020, December 16, 2020)L11115
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STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTY-SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT MCHENRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS Probate Division Case No. 20PR000322 Estate of Carol S. Deering, Deceased ORDER ADMITTING WILL TO PROBATE AND APPOINTING REPRESENTATIVE On petition for admission to probate of the Will of the decedent and the issuance of Letters of Office, the Will having been proved as provided by law, IT IS ORDERED THAT: 1. The Will of Carol S. Deering dated April 20, 1995, be admitted to probate; 2. Letters of Office as independent co-executors issue to Connie Lynn Palmberg and Richard Deering upon approval of oath and bond without surety. 3. The representative in independent administration shall file annual reports; the first of which is due on or before 60 days after the expiration of the one-year anniversary of this Order and annually thereafter; 4. The representative in supervised administration shall file an inventory within 60 days; and shall file annual reports and accounts, the first of
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THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
38
Veronica Baker, 14, poses with her first deer, shot during youth hunting season.
COURTESY PHOTOS
Marty Baker enjoys time spent in the woods with his kids, Jarod and Veronica.
Jarod Baker and one of the four deer he shot this fall.
Good hunting, good eating, good times
Hunting targets fun, food and fellowship for Woodstock family By Sandy Kucharski
NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
In a season when so many sports have been curtailed or canceled, the 2020 deer hunting season played out as scheduled, and it was a record year for one Woodstock family. The family team consisted of four hunters: Marty Baker, his brother-inlaw Pete Lew, and two of Marty’s three children, Jarod and Veronica. Combining efforts, the fab four harvested 11 deer, setting a family record. They accomplished their goal by hunting with a variety of weapons including bow and arrow, shotgun, rifle, and muzzleloader. One deer – their largest – was hit by a car and retrieved by the hunters immediately after it was humanely destroyed by Crystal Lake police. Tying his personal best and showing his versatility as a hunter, Jarod, a recent graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, got deer from both Wisconsin and Illinois during the different seasons, shooting four deer with three different weapons (shotgun, rifle, and muzzleloader).
“My favorite is probably the rifle my grandfather gave me that I use for Wisconsin hunting,” Jarod said. Veronica, 14, celebrated a milestone this year as she shot her first deer on youth hunting weekend in October. After trying the past two years, she finally found her target, a young button buck. A memorable first experience, the deer might have helped to tip the scales in her favor. Veronica described how she was in a tree stand trying to be as still as possible when she saw the deer about 75 yards away. Missing her first shot, she managed to reload and take two more shots. She missed again, but much to her surprise, the deer continued to walk closer. “I’m shooting and fumbling shells,” she said as she had never reloaded under pressure before. After seven shots, there was still no reaction from the deer. Coming within 15 yards of the hunters, it finally saw them and started to run back into the woods. “I steadied, trying not to shake,” she said. “I pulled the trigger.” “The eighth,” her dad said, “was a perfect lethal shot in the heart.” A photo of the successful hunt landed Veronica on the front page of the Pope County Herald-Enterprise, a
weekly newspaper in Golconda, Ill. Veronica, her high-school-age sister, Audrey, and Jarod have all been involved in the McHenry County 4-H shooting sports program, where they learned safety skills and practiced archery and rifle and shotgun shooting. “[4-H shooting sports] definitely improved my aim,” Veronica said. Family tradition Hunting for the Bakers, however, is much more than just a shooting sport. A proficiency for hunting was born out of necessity generations earlier. “My grandpa grew up during the Depression,” Marty said. “My grandfather’s cousin always said if Martin went into the woods with a .22 [caliber rifle], we knew we’d have meat that night.” Marty was introduced to hunting at age 12 when his dad took him to his grandparents’ home in Michigan. He grew into an avid sportsman, even going to college in upper Minnesota. “It was a sportsman’s paradise,” he said. “I hunted and fished all through college.” In turn, Marty first took his son Jarod hunting when he was 8 years old, and each daughter tried hunting when they were about 12. The family camps on hunting
weekends, and thrives on living the simple life. “It’s good family time together,” Marty said. “We have limited cell service and no television.” Filling the freezer The Bakers butcher and process all the venison themselves, hand-cutting roasts and steaks and making a variety of sausages, including bratwurst, smoked polish, smoked andouille, breakfast, Italian, snack sticks, and summer sausage.
Marty grinds venison to make sausage. Continued on next page
205 E. South St. • Woodstock
NN SCOREBOARD NN THERE ARE CURRENTLY NO HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS COMPETING. IF YOU HAVE A RECREATIONAL SPORT OR TEAM THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO HAVE LISTED IN THE INDEPENDENT SCOREBOARD, PLEASE EMAIL SANDY@THEWOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT.COM
BOYS CROSS-COUNTRY TEAM
The 2020 Woodstock boys cross-country season was a good one! •Undefeated conference champions •21 out of the 26 athletes scored in a varsity meet (only the top 7 from each team score in a meet) •2nd at a tough Belvidere Regional •Aidan Schleutermann and Jack Hansen qualified for the state meet! Great effort by all of our athletes to achieve the things we accomplished as a team/family.
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The Bakers primarily hunt on private property in rural Polk County in southern Illinois. Abundant wilderness areas and landowners who welcome hunting make it worth the six-hour drive. Referring to deer as bean-eaters, farmers appreciate hunting as a means of pest control by culling the nuisance herds. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources states that hunting is an important wildlife management tool that maintains the health and abundance of game species and the balance of our natural resources.
Dec. 16-22, 2020
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39 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
“It’s a good bonding experience, and we are able to utilize as much of the animal as possible and ensure that it is made into exactly what we want it to be,” Jarod said. In addition to getting the cuts of meat they want, they save an average of $120 per animal, the typical cost for sending a deer to be processed. “One of the things I enjoy about venison,” Marty said, “is it checks off every box for healthy meat,” such as free-range, lean, hearthealthy, and gluten-free. The tradition of farm- or field-totable goes beyond venison as the family maintains an extensive vegetable garden each year for fresh
eating, canning, and freezing. Marty also gathers wild berries when in season and makes wine.
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